600,000 speeders caught in a week

POLICE across Europe have announced they stopped and dealt with 600,000 speeding drivers across the whole of Europe in a single week.

The operation took place between 14-20 April this year and the results have been released now that all 29 countries involved have processed the cases.

The operation was organised by the European Traffic Police Network (TISPOL) to tackle the problem of speeding and dangerous driving. In total, 605,523 speeding drivers were stopped by police officers or caught by camera.

As well as speeding offences, other offences detected during the operation included 42 firearms offences, 504 drug possession charges and 400 wanted persons.

TISPOL President Koen Ricour reminded drivers that speed was one of the ‘big three killers' in the road environment. ‘Speed limits are in place for a reason, to reduce casualties and keep the roads safe for everyone. Unfortunately there are some drivers who see speed limits as optional and others who regard them as an inconvenience.

‘But speed limits are there to save lives. Drivers who either exceed the speed limit or drive at a speed that's inappropriate for the road, traffic or weather conditions, are more likely to be involved in a collision. At best this will result in damage and delay; at worst it can lead to serious injury or death.

‘We urge all motorists to demonstrate care and consideration for themselves, their families and others by driving safely at an appropriate speed, and certainly within the speed limit at all times. In this way, drivers will be greatly reducing the risk of killing or seriously injuring themselves or other road users.’

By Press Association reporters