GMP tests hundreds of driver’s eyesight to keep roads safe this winter

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) joined the nationwide National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) initiative to improve road safety during the darker autumn and winter evenings.

As nights draw in and visibility decreases, drivers face greater challenges on the road. The Operation Dark Night campaign, which ran from 27 October to 9 November, saw GMP officers carrying out morning and evening checks across all districts in Greater Manchester (GM).

The focus was on driver eyesight and vehicle compliance – critical factors for protecting vulnerable road users such as cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, who are at higher risk during darker periods.

Key results from the operation:

523 drivers underwent roadside vision checks.

15 drivers failed and were referred to the DVLA, with two failures linked to collisions.

Additional offences detected included:

14 drivers using mobile phones

11 drivers not wearing seat belts

 8 vehicles with non-compliant registration plates

 3 vehicles with illegal window tints

 2 PG9 prohibitions (vehicles prevented from moving due to serious defects)

 1 tyre-related offence

 5 drivers with no insurance

 2 drivers with no licence

 2 arrests

  GMP tests hundreds of driver’s eyesight to keep roads safe this winter | Greater Manchester Police