Authorities launch major offensive against dangerous and antisocial drivers in Birmingham

A major offensive against dangerous and antisocial drivers came into effect on Monday (7 August) after recent hit-and-run deaths and antisocial driving in Birmingham. 

Operations have been launched as part of a coordinated response by Transport for West Midlands, West Midlands Police, Birmingham City Council, and the region’s Police and Crime Commissioner to recent accidents that have resulted in deaths and serious injuries.

A major crackdown on dangerous and reckless driving comes into force following a spate of serious incidents – including the tragic death of children – on the region’s roads.

Authorities have promised more speed cameras, and more police units will be on alert – day and night – to tackle  dangerous drivers and those who use the city streets as race tracks. Police will also target antisocial bikers who are terrorising local communities.

Those found flaunting the law and making roads unsafe – and making life a misery for other motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and residents – will be rooted out to face punishment which includes a jail sentence, heavy fines and the loss of their cars or motorcycles.

The new offensive against dangerous drivers comes after a summit which was chaired by Andy Street, (Mayor of the West Midlands), and attended by various local authority representatives including Cllr Liz Clements (cabinet member for transport at Birmingham City Council).

The Mayor, said: “Any death on our roads is a tragedy and in recent weeks we’ve seen too many lives lost, families heartbroken, and communities outraged.”

As part of the coordinated crackdown, police have pledged an increase in around-the-clock enforcement operations to crackdown on antisocial driving and speeding, and to make it even easier for local people to report and provide evidence of dangerous behaviour on the roads.

Simon Foster, the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “People being tragically and avoidably killed and seriously injured on our roads is unacceptable.

“That’s why I am holding West Midlands Police to account, to prevent, tackle and reduce crime and antisocial behaviour on our roads.”