In a shocking display of reckless driving, a van driver was caught on camera trimming his beard with clippers while driving along a motorway. The motorist took both hands off the wheel to prune his facial hair with a pair of tin snips, typically used for cutting sheet metal.
The dangerous act was one of many instances of hazardous driving observed by police patrols on the M1 and M18 motorways, as well as the A1 dual carriageway, between July 14 and July 19. During the five-day operation, 240 drivers were caught risking their lives with various forms of careless and illegal behaviour.
Caught in the Act
Other footage captured during the operation revealed car and van drivers scrolling on their phones with one hand on the wheel. One particularly bizarre scene showed a bird gripping onto the back of a trailer after escaping from its cage.
South Yorkshire Police utilised an unmarked HGV vehicle, provided by National Highways, to monitor and record the concerning actions of motorists.
Alarming Statistics
Of the 240 drivers stopped:
- 45 were caught using their mobile phones while driving.
- 74 were not wearing a seatbelt.
- 10 were not in proper control of their vehicle.
- 12 were driving without due care and attention.
Additionally, 31 drivers were reprimanded for stopping on the hard shoulder, two were caught speeding, and three were found driving through a red X. The vehicles pulled over included 176 HGVs, 41 LGVs, and 57 cars.
Commitment to Road Safety
South Yorkshire Roads Policing Inspector Matt Collings emphasized the force’s dedication to reducing fatalities on the roads.
“Enforcing against those who pose a risk on our roads is daily business for officers, and we’re always keen to make the most of being provided the cab by National Highways to support our work,” said Inspector Collings.
He highlighted the alarming statistic that in just under three months since the last operation, eight more people had lost their lives on South Yorkshire’s roads.
“We are committed to doing all we can to reduce road deaths and casualties, but we can’t be everywhere. Road users must take responsibility for their actions and safety,” he added.
Fatal Four Offences
Inspector Collings stressed the importance of avoiding the “Fatal Four” offences, which are the leading contributors to fatal and serious collisions in South Yorkshire:
- Using a mobile phone while driving.
- Driving under the influence of drink or drugs.
- Speeding.
- Failing to wear a seatbelt.
“These are all things that you as a driver can avoid doing. You can’t control other people’s actions, but you can control your own. If you kill or seriously hurt someone, you will likely be facing a significant prison sentence. Think, is it worth the risk?” he cautioned.
Public Appeal
South Yorkshire Police continue to appeal to all drivers to adhere to road safety regulations and be mindful of their actions behind the wheel. The force remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard lives and reduce road traffic incidents.
