Police continuing to tackle dangerous driving in Seaton

Police have reported that anti-social and dangerous driving continues to be a concern in and around the Seaton area.

Numerous reports have recently been received from the public, indicating that this is not only a safety concern but also a significant quality of life issue.

Over the past few weeks, a number of vehicles have been identified by police and stopped as potential suspects for causing disturbance. There are currently nine vehicles, and their drivers, who are subject to formal proceedings and any subsequent incidents will result in vehicle seizures.

Te Rural East Devon policing team said: "Contrary to some bespoke feedback, this is not about going after easy targets; this is about reducing significant accidents and responding to the community concerns.

"Excessive speed is a common theme in the majority of reports that we receive. Higher speeds cause more accidents and around two thirds of all fatalities on the road network occur on roads with a speed limit of 30mph or less.

"Over the past 12 months within the Seaton area, there have been numerous accidents which have resulted in significant and life-changing injuries and tragically we have seen several fatalities locally.

"The Force will be deploying numerous units in a variety of marked and unmarked capabilities to conduct routine patrols within the area in a continued effort to disrupt this activity. These patrols will be continuing as we approach the summer months.

"We have identified the number of hotspots within Seaton, including Harbour Road (including Royal Observer Way and Tesco car park), Seaton Down Hill and Beer Road. We continue to receive complaints about dangerous driving within the area and the force will be adopting a zero tolerance stance towards this issue.

"Section 59 warnings will continue to be deployed (the first being a formal recorded warning, and any subsequent incident will result in immediate vehicle seizure). Should additional offences be identified, then prosecutions will take place alongside this warning and seizure process.

"Where vehicles are suspected of having been illegally modified, then vehicle examiners will be deployed to determine road suitability and insurance adherence.

"The feedback has been heard loud and clear and action will be taken."