Police call for footage of dangerous driving to help make roads safer

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Greater Manchester Police is calling on residents across the borough to help make local roads safer by submitting footage of dangerous driving via its relaunched dashcam submission portal, Operation Snap.

The initiative is part of Vision Zero, Greater Manchester’s commitment to eliminating road deaths and life-changing injuries by 2040, with a 50% reduction targeted by 2030.

Superintendent Gareth Parkin of GMP’s Safer Transport Unit said the portal represents a “determined and robust approach to policing the roads.”

“Sharing the roads and pavements and being respectful of that between drivers, riders, cyclists, and pedestrians is key to a safer Greater Manchester,” said Superintendent Parkin.

He highlighted the role of dashcam and cycle cam footage in holding drivers accountable and protecting vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders.

Since the launch of Operation Snap, submissions from road users have steadily increased. In 2023, 5,078 incidents were reported across Greater Manchester, up from 3,715 in 2020. So far in 2024 (up to mid-October), 4,729 submissions have been made, leading to 3,110 positive outcomes.

Outcomes range from warning letters and fines to prosecution, depending on the severity of the offence. Common violations reported include close passes of cyclists, mobile phone use while driving, running red lights, and obstructive parking. Reports from members of the public also help identify hotspot areas for enforcement. 

The programme has direct relevance for residents of Rochdale and Heywood, where local roads are included in GMP's safety initiatives. Community involvement is vital in ensuring that reckless drivers are identified, prosecuted, and deterred, ultimately reducing the number of serious collisions.

“We wish to support individuals choosing sustainable forms of transport such as cycling,” said Superintendent Parkin. “By helping us, we can help you and ensure you feel confident that the road network is being patrolled by our dedicated units with the support of the public.”

GMP attends an average of 925 road traffic collision-related incidents each month, with approximately 3,000 officers required to respond. The cost to emergency services is significant, but Vision Zero aims to alleviate this burden by reducing casualties through enhanced road safety measures.

The dashcam portal simplifies the process for residents to report incidents, with clear guidelines in place for submitting evidence. Footage must be uploaded within seven days of the offence, and users must be prepared to provide witness statements and attend court if required.

Residents are reminded not to share footage on social media, as this could compromise legal proceedings. The portal can be accessed at www.gmp.police.uk/report/ro/report-a-road-traffic-incident/.

“Everybody has the right to be safe, and feel safe, on the roads,” said Superintendent Parkin. “Our priority is to protect those most vulnerable and ensure we can reduce the number of fatal and serious collisions.”