Dorset Police is warning drivers not to
risk their lives this festive season by drinking and
driving.
The Force’s annual drink and drug driving campaign runs from
Saturday 1 December 2012 to Tuesday 1 January 2013.
During the Christmas campaign there will be
increased traffic patrols, as well as road-side checks, and every
driver who is involved in a collision during the period will be
breath tested – irrespective of whether they are suspected of drink
driving or not.
Inspector Matt Butler, from Dorset Police’s
Traffic Unit, said: “Drink driving is a priority for Dorset Police
throughout the year and is one of the fatal four.
“We are taking the opportunity at Christmas
time to remind people that putting your life, and the lives of
others, in danger for the sake of a drink is really not worth it –
so don’t take the risk, don’t drink and drive.
“If you are going out for a drink over the
festive period, then plan ahead to make sure you can get home
safely without having to drive. Take simple steps such as booking a
taxi, having a designated driver in your group of friends or
arranging overnight accommodation.
“Research has shown that even one drink can
impair the ability to drive, so my advice is simple – don’t get
behind the wheel after drinking any alcohol at all.
“People forget that they could still be over
the limit the morning after a night of drinking alcohol.
“Officers working on the ‘no excuse’ project
will also be focusing on drink and drug driving – as impaired
driving is one of the ‘fatal four’ driving areas that the project’s
officers target.”
The legal consequences of being caught drink
driving include a minimum 12 month driving ban, a criminal record,
up to six months in prison and a fine of up to £5,000.
The Force will also use information submitted
by the public to target suspected offenders of drink and drug
driving throughout the campaign.
Inspector Butler continued: “If a member of
the public suspects someone is driving under the influence of
alcohol or drugs, they should dial 999 immediately and report the
details to the police so that we can intercept that vehicle.”