MODIFIED VEHICLE ROADSHOW FOR YOUNG LOTHIAN DRIVERS
Lothian and Borders Police are hosting a series of road shows across East and Midlothian to highlight the dangers of vehicle modification to young drivers.
The events, which will take place in Straiton, Dunbar, Haddington, Musselburgh and East Fortune will demonstrate various modifications regularly made to cars and provide advice and guidance on their legality.
Every day in Scotland, around 16 young drivers between the ages of 17 and 25 are involved in serious road collisions that result in death or serious injury.
To assist with the presentations, Road Policing Officers and Road Safety Officerst have taken possession of a new car, which has been heavily modified. The vehicle was acquired and altered with the help of various partners in the commercial sector. Participants will be given advice and guidance on how these modifications affect the vehicle and the potential collision risks they pose. The road shows are open to drivers of all ages and anyone who wishes to attend is welcome to come along and discuss any driving issues they may have with police.
A police spokesman said: “Modifying a vehicle may seem like a desirable choice for young drivers who have recently gained their licence.
“However, alterations to engine capacity or other vehicle amendments may increase the risk of being involved in a collision and can also be illegal. It is, therefore, important we engage with these drivers and highlight all the associated dangers of vehicle modification. We would like to thank our partner organisations for their assistance with the educational car, which will act as a vital tool in our efforts to reduce the number of casualties on our roads.”
Any businesses or employers of young drivers, who would like this vehicle to attend at their workplace, please contact The Road Safety Office 0131 654 5539 to arrange a date and time
The road shows will take place at the following locations:
* Asda Superstore, Spott Road, Dunbar Wednesday 16th May, 12- 2pm
* The Bead Shop, 31 Court Street, Haddington Wednesday 30th May, 12-2pm
* Ikea, Straiton Thursday 28th June 12-2pm
* East Fortune Airshow, Saturday 28th July, all day
* Brunton Hall, Musselburgh, 28th, 29th, 30th August at ‘2mro’s Driver’ event, 9-3pm daily
