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Stop persecuting drivers for cash!

5th May 2005, Page 26
5th May 2005
Page 26
Page 26, 5th May 2005 — Stop persecuting drivers for cash!
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

INCREASINGLY we deal with the demands for driver detail in relation to motoring offences captured on camera.As a commercial vehicle operator I understand the need for speed restrictions and, in fact, any restriction that helps create a safe environment.

However, we in this country seem to be losing the plot somewhat. We are guilty of threatening the livelihood of our professional drivers. If am sure I am not alone in feeling nothing but pity for the driver who may drive in excess of 1,000 miles per week to earn his living and ends up gaining three points and a £60 fine for driving at 36mph in a 30mph limit, as was the case of one of our drivers driving on an A-road in Clwyd, North Wales. Or the driver recently prosecuted for driving at 48mph in a 40mph limit in virtually open country on a dual carriageway.

We have to break the news on a regular basis to our drivers that they have committed the shocking crime of travelling at less than 10 mph over the speed limit.

I know speed kills but the policies currently in place will kill the industry.

Each easily-gained three points will soon amount to a ban and ruin the careers of individuals who work hard travelling the mileage that they do.

The industry stands to lose good drivers who are in fear of the cameras in their ever growing numbers.We all know it's about collecting revenue and nothing to do with safety, and all at the cost of individuals who in the main do care about safety and do not have a cavalier attitude to the law. We need our professional drivers yet they are treated very unfairly as easy targets to generate more and more money. If we must continue to persecute these individuals and take from them as much money as we can then at least stop putting their future in jeopardy by issuing points. Just come clean and tell us all it's the money you want!

Dave Hammond

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