Police across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are this December encouraging drivers to know ‘It’s Not Worth the Risk’ and to not drink alcohol and/or take drugs and get behind the wheel.
Between now and 1st January officers will be carrying out breath tests, drug tests and field impairment test (FIT drug tests) at every opportunity. This is to help raise awareness to people that Police are proactively able to identify those that drive whilst impaired.
The public are encouraged to report drink and drug drivers with as much information and detail as possible so they can be targeted. If you know someone who drink or drug drives you can report them on 101 or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Alternatively there is a text number – 077814 80999. If the person is an immediate risk to another then call 999.
Did you know… 26% of all fatal collisions involve an impairment from drink or drugs. In Hampshire and Thames Valley region officers catch around 400 drink drivers a month.
Most drink driving offences are committed between 19:00 and 09:00, but the risks of driving the morning after are not always recognised by motorists.
Rob Heard, Road Safety Sergeant for Hampshire and Thames Valley Police said:
“Every year officers deal with cases of drink or drug driving that directly result in families facing Christmas without loves ones. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs in your system can affect your ability to drive safely – don’t let your friends and family pay the price.
“Friends, colleagues and family members can positively influence those around them. So we are calling on them to stop potential drink or drug drivers from getting behind the wheel and risking tragedy this Christmas.
Article continues below this advertisement “We’ll be running targeted operations across the region to enforce the law on drink and drug driving: you can face an fine of up to £5000, disqualification for driving, and a long prison sentence. If you know someone who drink or drug drives please stop and think you can help combat this issue, report them to us on 101, by text 077814 80999 or call 999 if they are driving or immediately about to drive under the influence. The better the details you give to us the more chance we have to find and deal with them.
“I am urging people to plan ahead during the party season. Think about how you’re going to get home and don’t forget about the impact alcohol can still have the morning after. Our message is simple, don’t drink or drug drive it’s not worth the risk”.
