We will target collision hotspots to reduce casualty rates, use information and intelligence to target and prevent road crime, and assist agencies and manufacturers to promote road and vehicle safety

Ricky Gray, Strathclyde Police

The strategy by the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland has been launched on the back of the latest national road safety campaign which saw more than 4,000 motorists reported for various road traffic offences.

Ricky Gray, assistant chief constable of Strathclyde Police and secretary of the ACPOS Road Policing Standing Committee, said officers would continue to clampdown on speeding which was a major factor in road accidents.

He said the police service would work in partnership with local authorities and other organisations.

"All eight Scottish police forces are committed to meeting the Government casualty reduction targets and this national strategy document reinforces our determination to succeed.

Drink and drugs

"By working together, all Scottish forces will be striving to influence driver behaviour and encourage motorists to drive responsible.

"Excessive speed is a major factor in most road deaths and serious injury crashes and this will continue to be tackled by the police.

"Other key areas are drink and drugs driving and seat belt usage," he said.

More publicity will form part of the strategy

Mr Gray added: "We will target collision hotspots to reduce casualty rates, use information and intelligence to target and prevent road crime, and assist agencies and manufacturers to promote road and vehicle safety."

The police aim to reduce death and injuries on the roads by means such as using historical data to identify offenders and target resources to detect and disrupt their activities.

They will also identify and target locations where road deaths, injuries and crimes occur.

Local communities will be encouraged to provide information to detect the activities of offenders.

Each police force will develop local action plans to achieve a reduction in casualties and road crime.

This year's national summer road safety campaign focused on the issue of child safety and aimed to influence driver behaviour near schools and shops.

There were a total of 1,822 motorists detected breaking the speed limit and a further 2,401 drivers and passengers were detected travelling without wearing seatbelts during the two-week campaign.