Police will next week begin a new campaign to clean up the roads by targeting drink drivers, people who overtake dangerously and faulty vehicle lights.

The Traffic Unit will launch the two-month initiative next Monday as part of its Selective Traffic Enforcement Programme (STEP) and is urging people to get themselves in check now before they are pulled over.

Police spokesman Dwayne Caines said during the last five months of 2001 there were six road deaths in Bermuda, and, in the majority of cases, alcohol was the main contributing factor. Impaired driving, therefore, especially at weekends, is to be targeted.

But motorcyclists in the habit of weaving in and out of rush hour traffic are also being warned, as they, too, could find themselves before the courts.

He added: "During morning and evening rush hours, the indiscriminate behaviour of cyclists overtaking improperly is also cause for concern.

"People should expect the Police to be out there looking for them. Improper overtaking will not be treated lightly, so people should take heed.

"Lighting offences are also quite prevalent and in this area the potential for disaster is great. Lighting offences include, but are not limited to, failure to indicate or indicators not working, front light not operational or in use in the night to dawn hours, and brake lights not working.

"Speeding will also remain high on the agenda, as will helmet offences."

If the initiative is successful, it may be extended to last three months.