Police in seatbelt blitz
POLICE are targeting drivers and passengers across Halton who fail to wear a seatbelt as part of a week-long European-wide campaign and slapping them with a £100 fine.
Officers in Runcorn and Widnes will be stopping those found not using the safety device and ensuring residents are aware of how critical they are.
The campaign by TISPOL – the European Traffic Police Network – will run until Sunday, March 19.
A Cheshire police spokeswoman said that officers regularly keep an eye out for anyone committing any of the ‘fatal four’ which are speeding, using a mobile phone illegally, drink or drug driving and not wearing a seatbelt.
During the week of action, they will be putting a special focus on educating motorists about the importance of wearing a seatbelt.
Inspector Steve Griffiths of Cheshire police’s Road Policing Unit said: “Wearing a seatbelt while driving should be common sense but there are still many drivers and passengers who fail to do so.
“Not wearing a seatbelt is one of the biggest killers on our roads.
“By not wearing one people are increasing their risk of death in a collision, therefore why wouldn’t you spend a few seconds putting one on?
“It is important everyone is aware of the huge risks and dangers that come from not wearing a seatbelt and this week officers will highlight the consequences involved.” ●