Devon and Cornwall Police targeting drink and drug drivers in Christmas crackdown
The force are running their annual campaign this month
Last updated 3rd Dec 2020
Drink and drug drivers are going to be targeted by Devon and Cornwall Police in their annual Christmas campaign.
Until Friday 1 January, officers will be cracking down on those who are under influence whilst driving in the two counties.
They want to raise awareness of the dangers involved in drink and drug driving by encouraging people to take responsibility for their actions this Christmas.
Officers will be requesting roadside breath tests throughout the month-long operation. They will request them from all drivers who commit a moving road traffic offence, irrespective of whether or not they suspect a drink driving offence.
They will also be using drug wipe sample kits on drivers suspected of being unfit to drive through drugs.
Officers will also be carrying out intelligence-led fixed site checks, as well as engaging with motorists on the risks of getting behind the wheel after a drink or taking drugs.
Inspector Matthew Setchell, of the Devon and Cornwall Roads Policing Team, said:
"We know 2020 has been a different year for us and we’re unlikely to be out socially in the same ways as before this Christmas, but I want to be clear that the pandemic will not stop us from rigorously targeting those who are a danger on our roads, day or night.
"Alcohol and drugs impair many of the functions necessary for safe driving; reaction times and spatial awareness are affected significantly.
"This may still be the case the morning after, depending on how much alcohol is consumed the night before and when you stopped drinking."
During last year's campaign, officers in Devon and Cornwall carried out 1,059 breath tests and charged 117 people with a drink drive related offence and 47 people with a drug drive related offence.
Drink and drug driving still accounts for 15% of road deaths and almost 10,000 casualties nationally each year.
Police Sergeant Owen Messenger, of the Alliance Roads Policing team, said he's witnessed the horrible impact it has on families who lose loved ones as a result of drink or drug drivers:
"Having to break the news to loved ones that a family member is never coming home is one of the worst parts of my role, but sadly it happens all too often.
"Over the past decade we’ve significantly reduced the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads and we are passionate about ensuring we continue this downward trend.
"I would encourage you to be the responsible driver and not to take the risk where drink or drugs are concerned."