20/12/2023
In the lead up to Christmas and New Year, our officers have been conducting road safety checks across Devon and Cornwall.
This is part of a national operation, focusing on reducing numbers of drink and drug drivers.
Cars in various locations have been pulled over for breathalyser and drug tests, and officers have provided education to hundreds of motorists about road safety and the dangers of impaired driving.
So far this December, our officers have carried out:
• 354 breathalyser tests, with 91 people arrested on suspicion of drink driving
• 97 roadside drug tests, with 50 people arrested on suspicion of drug driving
Superintendent Ben Asprey, Op Limit lead at Devon & Cornwall Police, said: “While it’s positive to see officers taking suspected drink and drug drivers off our roads, it’s worrying to see the number of people out there who think it may be acceptable to drive while impaired.
“Even the slightest amount of alcohol or drugs in your system increases the risk of causing serious harm to yourself or other road users.
“Despite long-term reductions, drink and drug driving still accounts for 15 per cent of road deaths and almost 10,000 casualties nationally each year.
“Tackling drink and drug driving is a priority for Devon & Cornwall Police. Our officers will be out in force, rigorously targeting those who are a danger on our roads, day or night.”
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, is chair of the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership.
Commissioner Hernandez said: “Drink driving is unacceptable – it puts the driver, passengers and innocent members of the public at substantial risk.
“Those found guilty of this crime face losing their license and even going to prison, which could cost you your job and livelihood.
“This doesn’t just apply to people who are on a big night out, those driving the morning after a few drinks could also unexpectedly be over the limit and unfit to drive.
“Please, don’t risk it – let’s make sure everyone gets home safely this Christmas.”
If you suspect someone has been drinking or has taken drugs and is about to drive, please dial 999 immediately, and provide the make and model of the vehicle, registration number and direction of travel.