Tackling dangerous driving behaviour

Operation Tramline - our HGV camera cabs

We are working with our police partners to make sure that:

• offences are spotted
• drivers are prevented from causing harm to themselves or others

One way we do this is by using HGV camera cabs in targeted multi-agency operations in different regions across England and Wales.

We supply HGV camera cabs to police forces. From the HGV cab's elevated position, officers can spot and record evidence of risky driving behaviour – whatever vehicle the motorist is driving. 

Consequences for drivers range from warnings to fixed penalty notices, court summons or arrest.

Police also use the initiative as way to engage with people. It gives them an opportunity to offer advice to drivers.

10 years of Operation Tramline

Since the launch of the 'Operation Tramline', officers from 35 police forces have recorded more than 51,500 offences using Operation Tramline cabs.

Types of vehicles stopped include:

• 40% HGV
• 30% van
• 30% car

Most common offences recorded over the last decade are:

Not wearing a seatbelt (14,861 offences)

People not wearing a seatbelt are twice as likely to die in a collision. 

Using a mobile phone (13,553 offences)

You’re also four times more like to be in a collision if you use your phone while driving. 

These two offences alone account for over half (54%) of the total number of offences police recorded between 2015 and 2024. 

They highlight why safety campaigns such as Operation Tramline are needed 

Learn more about driving safely in our leaflets:

Why you must wear a seatbelt

Leave your phone alone

What the Highway Code says

Using a phone, sat nav or other device when driving

It’s illegal to hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send or receive data, while driving or riding a motorcycle.

Using mobile phones while driving - the law.

Dangerous driving

You must not:

• drive dangerously
• drive without due care and attention
• drive without reasonable consideration for other road users

(Rule 144)

Avoiding distractions

Safe driving and riding needs concentration. Avoid distractions when driving or riding such as:

• loud music (this may mask other sounds)
• trying to read maps
• starting or adjusting any music or radio
• arguing with your passengers or other road users
• eating and drinking
• smoking

Driving requires focus and attention at all times. Remember, you may be driving dangerously or travelling too fast even if you don’t mean to (Rule 148).

General rules, techniques and advice for all drivers and riders.