Two charged over drink-driving in the North East in as many days
A woman’s been charged in connection with drink-driving after blowing eight times over the limit in Aberdeen. It comes the day after a man was found to be seven times over the limit in Aberdeenshire.
Road Policing Inspector Neil Morrison explains: "In the last two days we have dealt with two individuals in relation to alleged drink driving offences in the North East who have been considerably over the legal limit.
"On Wednesday 21 March at 4.45pm officers stopped a vehicle on the B9170 Oldmeldrum to Inverurie road near Oldmeldrum. The 49 year old male driver provided a roadside reading in excess of 7 times the legal limit. He was expected to appear at Aberdeen Sheriff Court on Thursday 22 March 2018 in connection with this incident and other road traffic offences.
"At around 4.00pm on Thursday 22 March 2018, officers dealt with a 55 year old female driver in the Bridge of Don who provided a roadside reading of in excess of 8 times the legal limit. She is anticipated to appear at Aberdeen Sheriff Court today (Friday 23 March 2018) in relation to this incident.
"The legal drink drive limit is 22 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath so to have two drivers give readings so far over the limit is hugely concerning.
"Both of these incidents occurred during the afternoon at busy commuter times of the day when there is increased traffic on the road. Thankfully neither of these drivers were involved in any collisions.
"Despite strong promotion over the years across the UK about the dangers and risks of drink driving and the highly publicised reduction of the Scottish drink drive limit in 2014, it is still disappointing that some people do think it is safe and acceptable to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking.
"Drink or drug driving is not acceptable and should not be seen as such. Police Scotland is fully committed to tackling this inconsiderate, anti-social and potential life changing behaviour and will continue to enforce the drink drive legislation across the region on a daily basis.
"Those who fail drink/drug drive tests can face a minimum 12 month driving ban, a criminal record for a lengthy period and a substantial fine. There is also the potential to lose your vehicle. We have submitted forfeiture requests for both of the vehicles involved in this week's incidents.
"Obviously there is also the risk of seriously or fatally harming themselves and other road users when a person takes the decision to drive whilst under the influence.
"I would remind drivers that they can still be over the limit the morning after, and it is therefore always best to leave sufficient time before driving, ideally to later in the day.
"We are often alerted to possible drink drivers as a result of information received from concerned members of the public. We welcome this information and I would thank those who take the time to phone and report alleged drink drivers and I would encourage this practice to continue.
"With the weekend upon us I am urging drivers to think carefully about their actions if they are planning to go out socialising and to consider their options the day after.
"Road safety is everyone's responsibility and the information we receive, anonymously or otherwise, greatly assists us in being able to identify and tackle this issue head on.
"If you suspect someone of drink or drug driving please call in with details on 101. Alternatively to remain anonymous, you can also call the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."