Urgent warning for NC500 drivers as Scots cops launch major crackdown

AN urgent warning has been issued to drivers travelling along Scotland’s iconic NC500 route.

Cops are cracking down on speeding drivers on the notorious roads after complaints from locals about the standard of driving in the area.

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Officers carried out patrols around Caithness and west Sutherland over the weekend, resulting in 14 people being charged with speeding offences.

They are now warning tourists and locals alike of the importance of good road practice in an attempt to crack down on dangerous driving.

The iconic route is driven by thousands of people every year and has fallen victim to a number of fatal crashes.

The Highland and Islands Road Policing Unit said on their Facebook page over 50 vehicles had been stopped as part of Operation CEDAR.

Operation CEDAR (Challenge, Educate, Detect and Reduce) aims to address poor standards of driving and reduce road death across the north of Scotland.

Among the 50 vehicles stopped, 14 people were charged with speeding offences.

One of those charged with speeding was a learner driver.

One person was reported to the Procurator Fiscal for Dangerous Driving.

One person was reported for drug driving and one for drink driving.

People were also reported for a number of documentation crimes including two driving without drivers licenses.

Three people were found to be driving without insurance one person without a valid test certificate.

Among other driving offences, five tires were found to have cord exposed and one child was discovered to be improperly restrained in a vehicle.

And while campervans are popular to explore the route, two campervan drivers were also spoken to about their standard of driving and reminded to let vehicles through to prevent frustration.

In addition to these offences, officers also issued 19 warnings in relation to vehicle modifications, load security and standards of driving.

Police Constable Stowe of The Highland and Islands Road Policing Unit said: “These patrols highlight our commitment to tackle poor driving standards across the whole of the Highland and Islands area, even the more remote parts, which also form part of the North Coast 500 route.

“We encourage those to use and enjoy the route, but adhere to the rules of the road in order to keep all road users safe when doing so.

“It is disappointing to see some have fallen below the standard expected and I would urge all drivers to think about not only themselves, but others who are using the road network too.

“It is also important to carry out regular checks on your vehicle, especially as we draw closer to the winter months”.

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