Last week, Merseyside Police deployed the National Highways Operation Tramline HGV cab across the strategic road network, using the elevated cab position to identify drivers committing high‑risk offences that contribute to serious and fatal collisions.
Across the week, officers dealt with 104 offences, including:
- 16 failing to wear a seatbelt
- 22 using a mobile phone while driving
- 18 insecure loads
The unique vantage point of the HGV cab allows officers to clearly see into vehicles, making seatbelt offences, mobile phone use and other dangerous behaviours impossible to hide. The operation forms part of Merseyside Police’s continued zero‑tolerance approach to the ‘Fatal 4’ offences:
- Failing to wear a seatbelt
- Using a mobile phone while driving
- Speeding
- Drink and drug driving
On Monday 2 February 2026, officers deployed the cab alongside increased resources across local A roads and Motorways. Using on‑board camera technology, the team captured multiple offences. Some drivers will receive notices through the post, while others, particularly those committing multiple offences were stopped and escorted to a designated check site.
At the check site, Operation Pennine brought together Merseyside Police, Cheshire Police and the DVSA to carry out further investigations, vehicle checks and enforcement where required.
Chief Inspector Stuart McIver said: “This is not the first time we have deployed the Op Tramline cab, and it will not be the last. Over recent years we have strengthened our approach to road safety and enforcement, from partnership operations like Op Pennine, to aerial photography, unmarked vehicles, AI cameras and the Tramline cab itself. We will continue to innovate.”
“Everyone has a part to play in keeping our roads safe. Those who criticise these tactics often have something to hide. Far too many lives are lost because of simple, avoidable decisions, like using a mobile phone while driving.”
“Our position is clear: we have a zero‑tolerance approach to those who put others in danger here in Merseyside. If you commit offences, we will deal with you. We will be out morning, day and night, visible or not.
We can’t be everywhere, but we can be anywhere.”
Lisa Scott, Regional Road Safety Programme Manager (North West) at National Highways, said: “Safety is our top priority. Our overall goal is to reduce the number of incidents caused by dangerous driving and improve safety on our roads.
“We know most drivers, who use our roads every day, are sensible and safe behind the wheel, but a minority are putting themselves and others at risk by engaging in dangerous behaviours.
“By working with the Merseyside Police, Operation Tramline is helping make our roads safer for everyone by encouraging drivers to think about their behaviour and stick to safe driving habits.”
You can report road traffic offences to Merseyside Police here: Report a road traffic incident | Merseyside Police