Unmarked trucks: Britain's new weapon against road offenders
For many years, the police have used unmarked patrol cars to effectively monitor traffic and catch drivers violating laws. In the UK, officers have now decided to incorporate unmarked trucks into their fleet.
The British police have introduced unmarked trucks into their patrol fleet, serving as mobile patrol vehicles. Although this method is unconventional, it has quickly proven to be exceptionally effective in identifying drivers breaking traffic regulations.
The program started in 2015, initially focusing on professional drivers often caught using phones while driving. The success of this initiative led the police to include unmarked trucks in their preventive measures permanently.
Police use unmarked trucks
The British road police have specially adapted DAF trucks equipped with blue warning lights discreetly placed behind the grille. This setup allows officers to signal stops when they notice an offense.
Each truck carries a two-person police team—a driver and a passenger with a camera. Thanks to the vehicle's height, they have an excellent view of the interiors of overtaken car cabins. This perspective enables them to monitor driver behavior closely, which would be impossible from a standard patrol car.
Officers pay particular attention to drivers using phones and tablets while driving—one of the main road hazards. Fines for such offenses can be up to £2,500 (about $3,200), which is a significant financial burden and effectively discourages risky behavior.
In response to the program's positive results, the British police intend to gradually increase the number of unmarked trucks to enforce regulations even more effectively. These special patrol vehicles can currently be seen on highways and dual carriageways.
