The sister of a drink drive
victim has spoken out to warn drivers of the devastating impact
drink driving can have – as Dorset Police launches its annual
Christmas drink and drug driving campaign.
Running in tandem with the national
campaign, this year’s drink and drug driving initiative will begin
in Dorset on Tuesday, 1 December 2009 and run until Friday, 1
January 2010.
Joan Dickinson’s brother,
56-year-old Dennis Watts from Bere Regis, was killed in April this
year when Belgian lorry driver Didier Gillis – who was more than
three times the drink drive limit – ploughed into the back of the
tractor Dennis was driving.
Joan, who lives near Dorchester,
said: "Drink driving ruins lives, I know because it’s happened to
me and my family.
"I don’t want anyone else to go
through what we have suffered just for the sake of a drink.
"I’d say to anyone who thinks it’s
ok to have a drink and then drive – is it really worth killing
someone over alcohol? And how would you feel if it was a member of
your family who was killed by someone who’d had too much to
drink?
"Our lives will never be the same
again and all because that man got behind the wheel when he’d been
drinking."
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 December will be
breath tested – irrespective of whether they are suspected of drink
driving or not.
Chief Inspector Bob Nichols, from
Specialist Operations, said: "The tragic death of Dennis Watts and
the enormous sense of loss that his family are feeling goes to show
just how devastating drink driving can be.
"Our advice to drivers is not to
get behind the wheel after drinking any alcohol at all, because
even one drink can impair your driving.
"As well as the very real risk of
causing serious injury or even death, the consequences of being
caught drink driving are extensive – including a minimum 12-month
driving ban, a criminal record, up to six months in prison and a
fine of up to £5,000.
"There may also be further
financial or social consequences such as losing your job or
relationship – I’d urge motorists to ask themselves whether it’s
really worth it.
"The man responsible for Denis
Watts’ death is serving six years in prison and will live with the
consequences of his action for the rest of his life.
"If you are going out for a social
drink over the festive period, then plan ahead to make sure you can
get home safely and without having to drive yourself. Take simple
steps such as booking a taxi, having a designated driver in your
group of friends or arranging overnight accommodation.
"I’d also urge the public not to
get into a vehicle if you think the driver has been drinking and
report this driver to Dorset Police."
Chief Inspector Bob Nichols added:
"We have had excellent support from the public during previous
campaigns and once again we want anyone who suspects that a vehicle
is being driven by someone under the influence of alcohol or drugs
to contact Dorset Police immediately by dialling 999 – so that
officers can intercept the vehicle."
Members of the public can
also call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111
or the Dorset Police non-emergency number on 01202 or 01305 22 22
22.