Give drink and drug driving the red card this summer

As Euro 2016 begins and we start a month full of football, we urge drivers to think twice before taking the risk of drink and drug driving. Officers will be out in force across the country, following an intelligence led approach to target those who recklessly drink and drug drive.

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Roads Policing, Chief Constable Suzette Davenport said:

“Euro 2016 is an exciting time but fans must plan ahead to reduce the temptation to drive when over the limit.

“The government have estimated that there are over 200 fatalities every year caused directly by drink and drug drivers. There are many more casualties who suffer serious, life changing injuries that in many cases require lifelong care.

“Drivers are not only risking their own life, but the lives of their passengers as well as other innocent motorist or pedestrians.”

Officers are now better equipped than ever to stop, arrest and convict those who drink or take drugs and get behind the wheel. Under new legislation, drink drivers with a breath specimen of less than 51mg/100ml are no longer entitled to request a blood or urine sample.

The NPCC Christmas campaign officers detected more drug driving offenders in December 2015 with the aid of the new drug screeners than during the whole of 2014. The trend looks to continue into the summer months with even very small amounts being detected and leading to arrest.

CC Davenport continued:

“It’s a simple decision for drivers, have fun and enjoy the summer but don’t drive if you’ve had a drink. Officers will be carrying out thousands of tests at all times during the day and night to ensure that people who take the risk will be tested.

“If you’re celebrating or commiserating during Euro 2016, don’t drive while under the influence.”

As it’s the first time in over 50 years that three home nations are competing in a major tournament, forces are aware that pubs will be full of fans that are enjoying a drink with fellow supporters. Officers will be focused on preventing those who think they can drive whilst intoxicated by proactively patrolling and targeting high risk locations.

As always our message remains the same - there is no excuse for driving under the influence.

If you suspect someone is driving while unfit to do so, please report it immediately to your local police on 101 (or 999 if they are posing imminent danger) or phone it through anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Notes for editors:

NPCC summer drink and drug driving campaign runs from 10 June 2016 to 10 July 2016.
Failure rate includes total tested that were positive, failed or refused.
CC Davenport’s availability for interview will be checked but cannot be guaranteed.