Police criticise 'reckless drivers' caught on Easter weekend

Police have criticised “reckless drivers” who were caught speeding and drink-driving over the Easter weekend despite the coronavirus lockdown.

Between April 10 and 14, officers recorded at least ten speeding offences, eight drink-driving violations and eight drug-driving offences.

One 23-year-old man was caught travelling above 100mph on the 60mph-limit A96 near Forres, Moray, while a 25-year-old man was recorded at 118mph on the 70mph-limit M8 near Chapelhall, North Lanarkshire.

Other drivers were involved in crashes or found to be driving without insurance, and police have charged a number of people with motoring offences.

A senior officer has urged motorists to “drive safely and legally” and follow Government lockdown advice.

Superintendent Simon Bradshaw said: “Drink or drug-driving is never acceptable and it is astonishing to see people behave so recklessly, particularly when we all need to be doing our bit to stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives.

“Officers remain on patrol on the road network and in local communities to deal with illegal driving behaviour in order to keep people safe.

“While the roads may be quieter as the majority of people stay at home, there still remains the potential for unexpected changes to road conditions, such as the presence of pedestrians or deer and other wildlife.

“Nobody can predict what is around the corner and speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly increases your chances of being involved in a crash.

“The consequences of speeding or drink or drug-driving can be fatal and it simply is not worth the risk. Now, more than ever, we urge motorists to drive safely and legally and to pay heed to Government guidance on staying at home.”