Find out how many drivers were caught speeding in a fortnight in Nottinghamshire

The plea comes after a number of road collisions on county roads over the past week.

Superintendent Claire Rukas, Head of Operational Support, said: “As lockdown restrictions ease more people are getting back out on the roads.

“We want to ensure drivers are using their vehicles in a safe, legal and responsible way and work with us to keep our roads as safe as possible for everyone involved.

"Lockdown saw an increase in vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, which drivers should be mindful of when they take to the roads.

“With the decreased usage of vehicles during lockdown it is absolutely critical that drivers are checking their vehicles before heading out on to the roads and ensure they are aware of other, new road users.

“Many cars, vans and motorbikes will have not been used and it is essential that these are checked before being used.”

The force’s road safety reminder comes after figures showed that nearly 5,500 offenders were caught speeding on the county’s roads during a national policing operation.

Between May 25-June 7 a total of 5,495 drivers were caught speeding, around 3,000 of whom were clocked speeding on static motorway speed cameras.

The number of recorded offences, which compares favourably with other neighbouring regional forces, covered a recent two-week National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) speeding operation.

Supt Rukas added: “We’re urging drivers to be aware of the dangers and risks of speeding.

“Excessive speed is identified as one of the ‘Fatal Four’ main causes of collisions resulting in fatal or serious injury. “The careless and dangerous actions of one motorist can have devastating effects on the lives of other so we are continuing to urge drivers to pay attention, take care at all times and obey the speed limit.

“Those caught exceeding the speed limit throughout Nottinghamshire can expect to be dealt with robustly. Speed limits are the legal limit, not a guideline. By breaking the limit, you break the law.

“Speeding kills and driving within the speed limits makes our roads safer. Please slow down and save lives.”