Dated: 24 April 2023
POLICY TITLE: Drivers of Emergency, Police and Hire Vehicles – Prosecution Policy
OWNING DIRECTORATE: Criminal Justice
AUTHOR: Chief Superintendent, Criminal Justice and Custody
CONTACT DETAILS: 101
EQUALITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT: Complete
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AIM OF POLICY: To ensure the safety of the general public and Northumbria Police staff by maintaining strict working practices in relation to the adherence of speed limits, traffic control measures and road traffic regulations, unless there is a justifiable operational need to provide a quick response or do so. At all times safety of the public and staff themselves should be paramount.
BENEFIT OF POLICY: Protection of the general public and Northumbria Police staff.
REASON FOR POLICY: Promotion of safe working practices.
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Drivers of vehicles being used for police purposes must not exceed speed limits, contravene red light signals or other road traffic regulations UNLESS there is a justifiable, operational need and it can be done safely.
All incidents will be reviewed where drivers of vehicles used for police purposes have contravened red light, speed cameras or where notification of traffic offences are received, to ensure that they have acted appropriately in the circumstances.
This policy will apply equally to all foreign force, hire vehicles and other emergency vehicles.
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SOURCE DOCUMENT: N/A
GROUPS AFFECTED: All staff
ACCESS AND DISCLOSURE RESTRICTIONS: None
