Lancashire Police launch summer drink and drug driving crackdown
Operation Virage will be using intel to target repeat offenders
Lancashire Police has launched a dedicated summer crackdown on people who get behind the wheel whilst under the influence of drink or drugs.
Operation Virage will also use intelligence to target repeat offenders in the county.
When intelligence is reported to the police, it'll undergo checks, before being graded based on the quantity or quality of intelligence coming into force and the severity of the offending behaviour, amongst many others.
The additional funding is helping to support the work already being done as part of Operation Virage, allowing officers to target even more drivers.
Police say it means officers can intervene on troubling driving behaviour early, before it becomes more dangerous, offering road safety advice and signposting to support services for those with substance misuse issues.
The force has partnered with the Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, alongside Lancashire's Combating Drugs Partnerships, to send a message to those thinking of drink or drug driving this Summertime.
Superintendent Hassan Khan, Operations Manager of Lancashire Police’s Tactical Operations, said:
“Our main aim is to keep Lancashire's roads safe, and a big part of this is reducing the number of people who choose to drive a vehicle whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
“Our officers carry out daily roadside drug and alcohol tests, and on average we arrest seven people a day for drink or drug driving.
“We want everyone to enjoy their summer, but we urge people to be safe and know the law. If you plan to have a drink, you should order a taxi home, arrange a lift or have a designated driver in your group.
Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, added: "Drink and drug driving are unacceptable and anyone who selfishly puts other road users' lives at risk should feel the full force of the law.
"Targeted operation like this are a great tool in making Lancashire's road safer and deterring drivers from getting behind the wheel under the influence of drink or drugs.
"Our message to drink and drug drivers is clear – get help or get caught. Don't be the reason for someone else or yourself becoming a casualty on our roads".