ROAD deaths in Lanarkshire have been reduced by 40% and accidents cut by almost a fifth following a police campaign.

Police Scotland officers have helped drive the numbers down by promoting road safety and enforcing road safety legislation.

Officers are patrolling the Lanarkshire area on a daily basis detecting drivers putting themselves and other road users in danger.

In the past year, from April 2011 to March 2013, this work has helped reduce the number of road deaths in Lanarkshire by 40% – from 17 to 10 people, and road crashes by 19%, down from 2954 to 2389.

Chief Inspector Rosie Wright, local area commander in Lanarkshire, said: "In Lanarkshire between April 2012 and January 2013 the police attended road accidents where 10 people lost their lives – although this is significantly down from last year it is still 10 people too many.

"Police Scotland is committed to working with our partners in an effort to reduce these numbers. An important part of this work includes enforcement of road safety legislation.

"Each time officers detect someone not wearing a seatbelt, using their phone whilst driving, or speeding, they have potentially prevented a road crash or serious injury.

"Everything we do on the roads is to promote safety, prevent accidents and reduce casualties."

During the initiative drivers have been caught using mobile phones whilst driving, not wearing seatbelts, or failing to ensure their passengers are wearing seatbelts, and speeding.

While others have also been stopped for driving without a valid driving licence or insurance.

Chief Inspector Wright added: "My officers are working hard to support this and will enforce legislation where offences are detected.

"In addition, they will pro-actively target those drivers who show no regard for legislation or safety and drive whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs or whilst disqualified. "

Officers are asking members of the public to play their part and contact them if they know of people who drive whilst disqualified or when under the influence of drink or drugs.

Chief Inspector Wright added: "The public are crucial in helping us catch those who continually flout the law.

"If you know anyone who is driving without a licence or under the influence of alcohol, then please call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be given in confidence."

deborah.anderson@ eveningtimes.co.uk