Hampshire Police begin Christmas drink and drug driving crackdown
Officers will be carrying out extra patrols through December
Police forces including Hampshire are cracking down on drink and drug drivers in the run up to Christmas.
It's feared more people will choose to get behind the wheel after a boozy night out as the festive party season hits.
Last December, 142 drink driving and 136 drug driving offences were recorded across Hampshire alone.
Chief Inspector Emma Hart said:
"There is absolutely no excuse for anyone getting behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs. Every year we arrest people who think they can get away with it. Don't let that person be you this December. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can significantly damage your ability to drive safely.
"Instead of risking the chance of killing yourself or another road user. A fatal collision causes complete devastation to families, particularly when it is caused by an impaired driver.
"Just make other arrangements like having a designated driver or booking a taxi. Remember also that you may still be too impaired to drive the following morning. Don't do it. If you do, we will catch you and you will be arrested."
In 2022, there were 57 fatal collisions on the roads in Hampshire.
In 18% of these incidents, impairment by drink or drugs was recorded as a contributing factor.
If you're aware of someone drink or drug driving, you're asked to call 999 if it's happening immediately - in a non-emergency, you can contact 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.