Police stop 33 taxis in Sheffield as unsafe vehicles taken off the road

A road safety operation targeting taxis in Sheffield city centre has resulted in several drivers and vehicles being suspended after officers identified a number of safety concerns.

The joint operation, carried out by roads policing officers alongside enforcement teams from Sheffield City Council and North-East Derbyshire Council, took place on Penistone Road on Friday, 8 May.

Officers stopped vehicles used for taxi services to inspect their condition and check drivers’ documentation.

A total of 33 vehicles were stopped during the operation.

Two drivers had their vehicle licences revoked and were prohibited from driving after officers found tyres with little or no tread, including one tyre with exposed cord.

One of the drivers was also wanted in connection with driving offences.

Six additional drivers were issued traffic offence reports after defects were found with seatbelts and vehicle lights.

Officers said 16 drivers were found to be fully compliant with regulations and thanked them for their co-operation during the checks.

PC Sam Cooper, who led the operation, said road policing officers regularly witness the consequences of serious collisions and stressed the importance of maintaining safe vehicles.

He said: “Telling a family their loved one has died is one of the worse parts of our job and reminds us why the work we do to create safer roads is so vitally important.

“These operations are not about targeting those working on the roads, they are about people taking action, changing their behaviours and ultimately saving lives.

“The majority of collisions could have been avoided by responsible driving and safe vehicles.

“While you can’t be responsible or everyone’s actions, you can your own, and I urge all road users to do their part.”