Highland tourist hotspots on major trunk roads targeted by high-visibility Police Scotland patrols; more than 750 drivers spoken to during safety initiative on A82 at Urquhart Castle, A9 at Dunrobin Castle, and Ralia, and the A87 at Eilean Donan Castle

High-visibility police patrols have spoken to hundreds of motorists at major Highland tourist hot-spots in a bid to cut serious crashes in the region.

During June, Police Scotland officers spoke to more than 750 motorists during the special patrols on the A82 at Urquhart Castle, A87 at Eilean Donan Castle, and the A9 at both Dunrobin Castle in Sutherland and Ralia in Badenoch.

The initiative, which ran in June, focused on supporting safe travel for those visiting Scotland by car, motorcycle, bus or motorhome. Officers engaged with a wide range of vehicle users - including those in hire cars, tour buses, and private vehicles — offering advice on driving in Scotland, rest breaks, and driving on rural roads.

The force hopes the patrols will help to cut the risk of serious crashes on Highland roads, and improve the overall experience for residents and visitors driving on routes that are known to be extremely busy during the summer season.

Road Policing Sergeant Calum MacAulay said: “The Highlands welcomes thousands of visitors every year who come to enjoy our landscapes and culture, many of whom are unfamiliar with driving on the left, or on rural roads. '

'Our officers are providing practical advice on using passing places, understanding local signage, and sharing the road space with others and these conversations are held with the intention of preventing serious injury collisions.'

'This work continues through the summer season in support of broader road safety aims, and in collaboration with local partners and national agencies.'