Image: Greater Manchester Police
Police forces across the country have begun their annual month-long festive crackdown on drink and drug driving.
Operation Limit is co-ordinated by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) to target those who choose to drive under the influence.
Each participating force will use a range of different tactics including vehicle stops and roadside testing as well as undertaking education and engagement events.
In Hampshire & Isle of Wight, officers will be increasing patrols and enforcement activity – including conducting early morning patrols to target those still impaired the following morning after drinking.
Officers will also be conducting roadside tests on motorists leaving Southampton Airport, in a bid to stop people drink driving when they may still be over the limit after consuming alcohol on their holiday or even on their flights home.
Chief inspector Emma Hart, of the region’s Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit, said: “Drink and drug driving kills and seriously injures people. The decision can be life changing for you and the people around you and there is absolutely no excuse for it.
“You will face serious consequences if we catch you driving while impaired from drink or drugs. You could lose your licence, and not having a car in the modern world can also mean you lose your job as a result.
“We’re asking everyone to take responsibility and help us save lives. Don’t get behind the wheel if you’re not fit to drive.”
It’s a similar story in Greater Manchester, where officers will be carrying out roadside breathalyser and drug wipe tests throughout the campaign.
Last year during the same period, 570 people were arrested, demonstrating the force’s determination to tackle impaired driving and keep our roads safe.
Chief inspector Michael Parker, Safer Transport Team at Greater Manchester Police, said: “We have a zero-tolerance approach to drink and drug driving and over the festive period we are focusing our efforts on tackling this issue.
“Our officers see the devastating impact of drink and drug driving far too often. We will be carrying out roadside checks right across Greater Manchester throughout December and will take action against anyone who thinks they can ignore the law.
“Education is key. If we identify drivers with a lack of road safety awareness, we will aim to educate where possible.”
Meanwhile in Surrey, alongside increased enforcement, Surrey RoadSafe is running a digital campaign.
The campaign creative centres around the fictional concept “Road Risk Roulette”, fronted by the character “Gambling Tommy” (played by Tommy Sandhu). The character appears at moments when the risk of drink or drug driving is “on the cards”, using the idea of gambling to highlight that impaired driving is a dangerous, life-changing risk.
The campaign will be delivered through a mobile-first video, designed to quickly capture attention and deliver a strong, clear message: Don’t Gamble with Drink or Drug Driving.
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