Number of drivers charged with drink driving over Christmas
South Yorkshire Police have released their figures
South Yorkshire Police have revealed the figures that were charged with drink driving over Christmas.
They say a number were also charged with driving while unfit through drugs or failing to provide a sample.
South Yorkshire Police said:
"Over a hundred drivers ruined their Christmas and risked the lives of others by getting behind the wheel after a drink or taking drugs.
"Officers deal with drink and drug drivers every day but we know that as the festive season approaches more drivers are more likely to take risks and get behind the wheel, so during December efforts are increased to stop dangerous drivers.
"During the month officers arrested and charged 118 drivers for driving while over the limit of alcohol, unfit through drugs or failing to provide a sample.
"No amount of alcohol in your system is safe and the effects of drink and drugs can have devastating consequences. Within 24 hours of testing positive you can be charged and appear before the courts.
"Of those arrested and charged, 76 (23-Doncaster, 17-Barnsley, 36 in Rotherham and Sheffield) were arrested and charged for driving while over the limit of alcohol, 27 drivers (12-Doncaster, 4-Barnsley, 11 in Rotherham and Sheffield) were arrested for driving while unfit through drugs and 15 drivers (1- Doncaster, 3-Barnsley and 11 in Rotherham and Sheffield) were processed for failing to provide a sample."
Roads Policing Inspector Matt Collings explains more, he said:
“We had an extremely busy December, and unfortunately witnessed the dangers of driving and using the roads can bring with our attendance at fatalities and serious collisions.
“Our passion remains to create safer roads for all road users and intercept those who use our road network to commit criminality.
“For some of those arrested during the month, their lives will significantly now change, they could potentially lose their jobs, their families and face an unlimited fine or driving ban when they appear before court.
“No amount of alcohol or drugs are safe and getting behind the wheel after consuming either is a selfish act that will not be tolerated across South Yorkshire.”
“We know majority of drivers are careful and cautious and would never dream of getting behind the wheel and driving while unfit and we appreciate your commitment to helping us create safer roads.
“We are on duty every day and every night, but we cannot be everywhere so if you believe someone is posing a risk to other road users, please contact us via 101 or in an emergency 999.”