More than 100 vehicles were stopped by police between Inverness and Aberdeen in just one day as officers launched a safety crackdown.
Police were stationed on the A96 trunk route between the two cities as part of the force’s latest effort to tackle careless driving and prevent accidents.
Of those stopped, 15 motorists were charged with speeding, three for having no insurance, one for using a mobile phone when driving, one for failing to wear a seat belt, one for careless driving and two for having no MOT test certificate.
Three uninsured vehicles were seized and three were prohibited for not being roadworthy.
In addition, 37 drivers received warnings relating to speeding, careless driving, minor vehicle defects and minor road traffic offences.
Road policing sergeant, Colin Matheson, hoped that the operation on Friday would send a “lasting warning” to dangerous drivers.
He said: “We are committed to road safety and collision reduction, and we carry out regular patrols on roads throughout the country.
“The A96 is a very busy route through the area and we receive calls regularly from people concerned about the behaviour of drivers, some of whom put other people and themselves in danger.
“The operation was carried out in response to these safety concerns and was aimed at positively influencing driver behaviour and checking the road-worthiness of vehicles.
“There are also still too many people taking the risk and driving without insurance.
“The minimum fine for insurance offences is £300 and six penalty points, and offenders risk having their vehicles seized.”