Summer drink drive campaign starts

DRIVERS who drink or take drugs will be targeted as part of this year’s Summer Drink and Drug Drive Campaign, which launches today.

During the two-week long intelligence-led campaign, officers will carry out additional patrols in the region, increased stops and driver education to bring an increased focus to the issue.

Roads Policing Sergeant David Kerr said: “Officers are out every day dealing with drink and drug drivers, but with this campaign we want people understand it is not worth the risk. You could lose your licence, your job and impact your loved ones and others.

“There simply is no excuse for drink or drug driving and we continue to target those who put themselves and others at risk.

“Traffic levels can be higher over the summer months and just one drink can be enough to affect your driving and the safety of those around you.

“If you are concerned someone is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, have the confidence to contact us via 101 or 999 in an emergency and we will take action.”

The campaign will be conducted through intelligence, road checks, high visibility and un-marked patrols.

Drink and drug driving are known contributory factors in serious injury and fatal collisions.  

Police are reminding motorists they can still be over the drink drive limit the morning after consuming alcohol and drugs may remain in the system for longer and be detected by roadside drug wipe tests.