Police launch month-long crackdown on drink-driving
Wednesday, 1st June 2011.
Drivers in Suffolk are being reminded by police to enjoy the long days of summer, but not to drink and drive as the annual month-long enforcement campaign begins on today.
Officers throughout the county will be concentrating on preventing and detecting drink and drug drivers in Suffolk.
Roadside checks will be carried out at all times of the day and night and on all types of roads and officers will be breath-testing anyone involved in a collision, however minor, in a bid to crack down on those who flout the law.
Alcohol or drugs were identified as a contributing factor in ten of the 42 fatal road traffic collisions in Suffolk in 2009 equating to 24 per cent. In 2010 this figure was at 15 per cent, which shows too many motorists who continue to break the law, with serious and unfortunately fatal consequences.
Ch Insp Adrian Dawson said: “Summer is a traditionally a time for enjoying the long warm days and socialising with friends. Our message is clear - have fun, but if you do have a drink then don’t get behind the wheel and drive.
"We are committed to tackling drink and drug driving and if you think you can break the law you will be caught.
“The percentage of road traffic collisions where alcohol or drugs was a contributing factor speaks for itself. Those offending need to realise that they are not just putting themselves at risk but other innocent road-users as well. This is a very serious issue and can have severe consequences.”
Anyone caught drink or drug driving could receive a court conviction, a driving ban of at least 12 months, a criminal record and an endorsement of their driving license for 11 years. They may also be liable to a fine of up to £5,000 and could face a prison sentence of up to ten years.
Ch Insp Dawson said: “We are urging people to be sensible, be safe, and arrange a lift home, or appoint a designated driver. If you are going on a night out, remember to book a cab, choose a nominated driver or, if you are at a friend’s house, stay over for the night.
“We are also appealing for members of the public to tell us about people who flout the law in this way. If you know of someone who is drink or drug driving, then please call the police. They are a danger to themselves, to you, your family and others, and they should be stopped.”
Anyone who suspects someone they know of drink or drug driving is asked to report them immediately to the police on 01473 613500.
Officers throughout the county will be concentrating on preventing and detecting drink and drug drivers in Suffolk.
Roadside checks will be carried out at all times of the day and night and on all types of roads and officers will be breath-testing anyone involved in a collision, however minor, in a bid to crack down on those who flout the law.
Alcohol or drugs were identified as a contributing factor in ten of the 42 fatal road traffic collisions in Suffolk in 2009 equating to 24 per cent. In 2010 this figure was at 15 per cent, which shows too many motorists who continue to break the law, with serious and unfortunately fatal consequences.
Ch Insp Adrian Dawson said: “Summer is a traditionally a time for enjoying the long warm days and socialising with friends. Our message is clear - have fun, but if you do have a drink then don’t get behind the wheel and drive.
"We are committed to tackling drink and drug driving and if you think you can break the law you will be caught.
“The percentage of road traffic collisions where alcohol or drugs was a contributing factor speaks for itself. Those offending need to realise that they are not just putting themselves at risk but other innocent road-users as well. This is a very serious issue and can have severe consequences.”
Anyone caught drink or drug driving could receive a court conviction, a driving ban of at least 12 months, a criminal record and an endorsement of their driving license for 11 years. They may also be liable to a fine of up to £5,000 and could face a prison sentence of up to ten years.
Ch Insp Dawson said: “We are urging people to be sensible, be safe, and arrange a lift home, or appoint a designated driver. If you are going on a night out, remember to book a cab, choose a nominated driver or, if you are at a friend’s house, stay over for the night.
“We are also appealing for members of the public to tell us about people who flout the law in this way. If you know of someone who is drink or drug driving, then please call the police. They are a danger to themselves, to you, your family and others, and they should be stopped.”
Anyone who suspects someone they know of drink or drug driving is asked to report them immediately to the police on 01473 613500.
Comment on this story
[board listing] [login] [register]
You must be logged in to post messages. (login now)