More than 100 arrested in two weeks during Avon and Somerset drink driving campaign
Campaign targets drivers under the influence of drink or drugs
Over 100 people have been arrested on suspicion of drink and drug driving in Avon and Somerset since the launch of a targeted road safety campaign on 1st December 2025.
According to the roads policing team, 117 individuals were taken into custody in the first two weeks of the campaign, surpassing the 111 arrests made during the same period last year.
The initiative aims to raise awareness of the dangers of driving under the influence and involves proactive roadside checks and conversations with motorists.
Efforts to tackle drink and drug driving
Officers are determined to address the role drink and drug driving plays in fatal collisions.
So far this year, it has been a factor in 25 per cent of fatal crashes in the region, according to Avon and Somerset police.
Inspector Matt Boiles from the roads policing team emphasised the risks involved, saying:
“Driving while intoxicated is never a victimless act. One decision can destroy lives in seconds - including your own.”
Police are asking residents of Avon and Somerset’s towns, cities, and villages to come forward with information about suspected drink or drug drivers.
The campaign is supported by technology such as ANPR cameras and CCTV, alongside community intelligence, to identify individuals putting others at risk on the roads.
Legal outcome for drink and drug driver
An example highlighted by police involved a case earlier this year where Michael Atkinson, a 38-year-old from Taunton, made the decision to drive under the influence, leading to “devastating consequences.”
Atkinson was driving a Mercedes Sprinter while disqualified and under the influence of drink and drugs when he struck Sally Blew, a 77-year-old grandmother, as she crossed Lisieux Way on 10th March 2025 at approximately 10am.
Despite already being disqualified, Atkinson tested positive for alcohol, cannabis, and cocaine at the scene.
CCTV footage showed erratic driving leading up to the collision. On 11th July 2025, Atkinson was sentenced to nine years in prison and disqualified from driving for 11 years and 11 months.
He pleaded guilty to the following charges:
- Causing death by driving while disqualified
- Causing death by careless driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs
Inspector Boiles noted the lasting impact of such decisions on offenders, highlighting the loss of freedom, damage to family relationships, career prospects, and the criminal record.