Police issue 15 traffic offence notices after Meadowhall car meet

Just after 7pm on Monday (Jun 1) police received reports of a car meet at Meadowhall car park, in Sheffield.

Police said they received calls about anti-social and dangerous driving occurring.

Roads policing officers responded and began examining vehicles and driver’s documents.

Officers were there for over three hours and police examinations led to 15 drivers Traffic Offence Reports (TORs) for various vehicle defects, such as poorly maintained tyres, speeding, lack of registration plates and illegal window tints.

One driver was found to be under the influence of drugs while behind the wheel, police said.

As officers carried out further checks, he was also found to be driving without a licence and uninsured.

Roads policing sergeant Martyn Micklethwaite tells us more: “Throughout our evening it was apparent that these drivers who attend meets are not always car enthusiasts, they are opportunists who want to show off in front of crowds in poorly maintained vehicles.

“We seized a further two cars for having no insurance, and while some people make think driving without insurance is a victimless crime, it is not. Someone somewhere pays the price and research, as well as our own experience, tells us that those who are willing to drive without insurance are also willing to take further risks.

“Four other vehicles were seized from drivers who have already had previous warnings about their driving manner. With no regard for changing their behaviour, we took their cars.

“We see the reality that poor decisions, poorly maintained vehicles and lack of regard for others can cause on our roads. We are the ones who inform families their loved one has died. We are the ones who investigate and carry that weight. It’s not about ruining people’s fun; it’s about keeping people safe.”

Eight drivers received a warning for driving in an anti-social manner.

Two drivers were dealt with for driving without due care.

Sgt Micklethwaite added: “Safety isn’t about stopping people having fun, it’s about ensuring everyone gets home in one piece.

“We are willing to work with organisers of meets, but anti-social and dangerous gatherings will not be tolerated.

“When one person takes a risk, everyone around them carries the consequences. Do your part and think ahead.”