North Yorkshire Police launch campaign about dangers of drink or drug driving

They will be carrying out unmarked patrols and doing stop checks this festive season

Author: Kathy GreenPublished 1st Dec 2022

North Yorkshire Police’s drink and drug drive campaign is launching today and will see officers patrolling the county in marked and unmarked police cars to catch anyone under the influence.

The force say static roadside checks will also be in place to provide officers with the power to request a breath sample from any driver who is suspected to have committed a road traffic offence.

Police say it’s not just about having a drink or taking drugs and getting straight into the car – you can also be over the limit the morning after.

During last year’s campaign – which ran from 1 December, 2021, to 1 January, 2022 there were 137 people arrested for drink or drug driving. From the 137 arrests, 120 were men and 17 were women. 72 people of the 137 were charged with an offence. 25 of the arrests were made following a road traffic collision.

"It's never worth the risk and can devastate live"

Superintendent Emma Aldred, head of Specialist Operations at North Yorkshire Police told us: "The Christmas drink and drug drive campaign is a priority for the force each year. We make no apology for stopping motorists who are either driving when over the drink drive limit or under the influence of drugs.

“December is anticipated to be a busy period for us with the usual Christmas parties as well as the world cup.

“I would urge people who are out socialising to call out anyone who is about to drive or who is driving when under the influence of drink or drugs.

“If it’s happening there and then, please call us on 999. One call could be all it takes to save a life”.

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