Disappearing Cops...

Good news or bad news for motorcyclists?

John Newman

• JohnNewman
• Police

When did you last see a traffic police patrol car on the highway, let alone a police motorcyclist?
Recent figures have confirmed that this area of law n order is a declining priority. In March 2010 there were 5635 traffic cops wandering the Tarmac, but by March 2014 the number was down to 4356...a 23% reduction.

A time for rejoicing or re-jigging? as the road safety organisation, BRAKE, are calling for more investment in traffic policing to prevent crashes, and presumably to reduce other road crime that is likely to lead to death or injury such as mobile phone use, drink driving, and driving while under the influence of a stressful schedule...a unacknowledged hazard.

Let's be honest; one of the main concerns for motorcyclists is accumulating points through speeding offences. Most of which these days are captured by electronic devices. There was a time when it used to be possible, by adopting a suitably humble and contrite demeanor, to 'get away' with a road side lecture. And this is not rose tinted memories, I can clearly recall incidents where I've been given the 'benefit of the doubt'.
Given the current state of economic affairs, it's unlikely that BRAKE'S, or anyone else's call for more road cops will get acknowledged. So just keep watching for those electronic traps.
What do you think, would you like more police on the roads? Email us at [email protected]