Policing teams carried out proactive patrols in Torquay, Paignton, Newton Abbot and Kingsbridge last week.

The operation led to the arrest of ten people in relation to Fatal Five driving offences.

The Fatal Five include: driving while distracted, speeding, driving without a seatbelt, drink/drug drive and being unfit to drive.

Around 98 per cent of collisions are caused by human error, with only two per cent caused by unavoidable issues, such as mechanical failure.

Several teams, including the Dog Section and the Special Constabulary, focused on Fatal Five offences across Newton Abbot, Kingsbridge, Torquay and Paignton.

During the operations officers carried out 36 vehicle stops. Police recorded six drink driving offences, three drug driving offences, three positive drugs wipes, five positive breath tests and officers seized two vehicles as part of the operation.

The Special Constabulary focused on speeding motorists in the Shaldon area with 27 drivers over the threshold with the top speed in the 20mph limit being 49 mph.

Chief Inspector Simeon Bayliss local policing in South Devon said: “This was a very successful night, with plenty of positive engagement with drivers.

“Whilst we know the majority of road users drive safely and abide by laws, it is disappointing to see this many people suspected of breaking the law and taking unnecessary risks while behind the wheel.

“Every year, we see families’ lives torn apart by the selfish minority who get behind the wheel and commit these fatal five offences, with zero regard for their own safety or the safety of others.

“We will continue to work with our partners to target offenders and reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads.”

Anyone concerned about another driver’s behaviour can report by calling 101.

Information can also be shared anonymously with CrimeStoppers by calling 0800 555 111.