More than 100 arrests made during drink drive crackdown
More than 100 arrests were made during December as part of our month-long crackdown on driving under the influence. Our officers were out in force over the festive period, aiming to keep the roads safe and prevent people from getting behind the wheel when they are over the limit. Those who commit these offences could face driving bans, heavy fines and prison sentences.
More than 100 arrests made during a festive drink drive crackdown
During December our officers conducted nearly 700 breath tests and more than 80 drugs test across all hours of the day.
The majority of motorists were law abiding however, we made 82 arrests for drink driving, 24 arrests for drug driving and eight arrests for failing to provide. One vehicle was spotted by officers from our Central Motorway Policing Group near J7 on the M6 North which was being driven in a dangerous manner on Boxing Day. The driver was pulled over and following a roadside breath test was arrested on suspicion of drink driving.The 36-year-old was later charged and is due to appear in court later this month.
Every day, lives are shattered by reckless drivers who choose to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The consequences are devastating, impacting not just the driver, but also innocent passengers, families, and entire communities. The impact of a drink or drug driving can be life-altering.
Innocent lives are lost, families are shattered, and survivors are left to deal with physical and emotional injuries for years to come. Chief Inspector Rebecca Barnsley from our Force Traffic Unit said: “We have made a significant amount of arrests over the festive period as we are target reckless and thoughtless motorists on our roads. “Any amount of alcohol can affect your ability to drive and there is not foolproof to measure it.
Our officers were out in force over the festive period aiming to keep the roads safe
“Even if you drive the morning after you have drank alcohol – it may still be in your system.
“It’s simple – if you have drunk alcohol or taken any drugs, do not get behind the wheel of a vehicle. “We will not hesitate to prosecute offenders who choose to put not only their lives, but the lives of other road users at risk.” All year round we have stepped up our efforts to catch those who choose to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs as part of Operation Triton.
The choice to drink or drug drive is never worth the risk. If you know you’ll be drinking, plan your journey ahead and arrange for a designated driver, book a taxi, or use public transport to get home. Speak up and don’t be afraid to intervene and call out friends or family members who are considering driving under the influence.
Your actions could save lives. Remind them of the consequences and help them get home safely. Remember, even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can impair your judgment and reaction time, significantly increasing the risk of an accident.
Choose to leave the car keys at home and prioritise the safety of yourself and everyone around you. If you suspect someone is drink or drug driving regularly, tell us what you know. Please call 101 or contact us via Live Chat on our website and always call 999 in emergency.
You can also report to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.