Police in Lothian and the Scottish Borders have begun piloting a new rider engagement scheme that uses drone technology to prompt conversations with motorcyclists about on-road behaviour.
Aim of the trial
The pilot, carried out on Saturday 18 July, invited riders in clearly signposted locations to speak with specially trained motorcycle officers. Officers used drone footage to support discussions and offered riders the opportunity to view recordings of their riding to reflect on actions that might increase risk.
The trial targeted education and awareness rather than enforcement. During the deployment officers spoke with seven motorcyclists. As a result:
- 2 riders received warnings about speed;
- 2 riders were issued vehicle defect forms;
- other attendees were offered advice and information on additional rider training.
Context and reasons for the approach
The scheme follows Transport Scotland statistics showing motorcycle riders and passengers accounted for 18% of road fatalities, despite motorcycles representing a very small proportion of overall traffic. Police say the new approach mirrors methods already used by other UK forces to reduce those killed or seriously injured on the roads.
“The use of drone technology to support rider engagement has been used by other UK forces as part of wider efforts to reduce those killed or seriously injured on the road,” said Chief Inspector Greg Burns, East Area Commander for Road Policing.
He added that the focus would be on starting conversations and making riders aware of high-risk manoeuvres such as unsafe overtaking and excessive speed through bends and junctions. The purpose is to encourage positive reflection and signpost further training opportunities.
Practical information for riders
Riders who encounter the pilot should note the following:
- Areas where drones are deployed will be clearly signposted.
- Interactions are intended to be educational; footage may be offered for riders to view.
- Enforcement action may still occur where offences or vehicle defects are identified.
| Item | Outcome in trial |
|---|---|
| Riders approached | 7 |
| Speed warnings | 2 |
| Vehicle defect forms | 2 |
The pilot is one element of wider road-safety work in the region. Police continue to urge all road users to exercise caution and responsibility so everyone returns home safely.
