Lancashire Police launched OpSnap towards the end of last year as an additional tool in their bid to tackle ongoing issues on the roads of Lancashire. The campaign focused on the introduction of a new streamlined and secure online portal where members of the public can easily upload and submit digital footage of suspected traffic offences they have witnessed.
This includes potential evidence of dangerous driving, driving without due care and attention, careless and inconsiderate driving, using a mobile phone, not wearing a seat belt, going through a red traffic light, going over solid white lines, and other offences where the driver is clearly not in proper control of their vehicle.
Since its launch OpSnap has had over 600 submissions and has seen over 50% of drivers receiving a sanction, whether that be a warning, a fixed penalty and penalty points, a driver retraining course where eligible or prosecution through the Magistrates’ Court.
Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Andrew Snowden added, “I’m pleased to see the rollout of OpSnap has been gathering pace and is already being well used as part of the real, positive changes we’re making to target and deter dangerous drivers here in Lancashire.
“We won’t tolerate people putting their own lives and the lives of others at risk through their reckless actions and the safety of our roads remains a key issue for residents that I talk to across the county.
“The public want to see those driving at high speeds or carelessly with no regard for other road users stopped and challenged and that’s why targeting dangerous drivers is a key priority in my Police and Crime Plan, with my Deputy Andy Pratt MBE now Chair of the Road Safety Partnership. Together we all have a part to play as we work to keep people safe and change the culture of road users.”
Superintendent Damian Darcy, Operations Manager for Tactical Operations, said “We often receive comments and complaints from members of the public about dangerous and anti-social driving and there is a significant demand for a system like OpSnap.
“By using a system like this it allows us to effectively deal with digital footage of traffic offences in a quick and secure way, whilst making the investigation process more streamlined for the public and saving our officers’ time.
“Road safety in Lancashire is something we take very seriously, and we are determined to tackle dangerous, careless and inconsiderate driving on our county’s roads.
“Keeping our roads safe is everyone’s business and people can do their bit, not only by driving or riding in a safe manner but also by highlighting dangerous or inconsiderate driving they witness and capture on their dashcams.
Submit footage here: https://unitedkingdom1cpp-portal.digital-policing.co.uk/lancashire/appeal/public-dashcam-submission
The public are urged to read fully the extensive question and answer section (FAQs) on the police force website (Lancashire Constabulary – Op Snap Public Submission Of Dashcam Footage FAQs) before uploading digital material, and to remember the following:
- The secure form is for traffic offences, it is NOT for submitting footage of road traffic collisions, any other offences or for parking issues.
- The car registration number of the offending vehicle must be clearly visible.
- The public should be prepared to sign a witness statement and possibly give evidence in court.
- Statements for OpSnap can only be accepted from persons aged 18 or over. If you are under 18 the incident should be reported by email to 101@lancashire.pnn.police.uk
