People are being urged to kick drink and drug driving out of the World Cup by taking a zero tolerance approach.
Statistics highlighted by Road Safety GB NE show that instances of drink and drug driving typically increase during major sporting tournaments, raising the likelihood of road casualties and deaths.
During both the World Cup in 2018 and Euro 2020, there was an increase in drink and drug driving injuries both on the day of and the day after England’s matches, with casualties rising from 10% to as much as 20% of all road injuries.
With the World Cup set to get underway in Qatar on Sunday (20 Nov), the road safety group, along with police and fire officers, have joined together to urge people to plan their transport home if they are planning to drink while watching the matches, and to do their bit to stop other people driving impaired.
They are also being reminded they may still be over the limit the next morning. It takes roughly one hour for one unit of alcohol to leave your body (a large glass of wine or strong pint of beer contains three units).
Peter Slater, chair of Road Safety GB NE, said: “We’re really looking forward to the World Cup and hope England do us proud again, but we want people to do the right thing and to keep both themselves and others safe on the roads.
“We know that people tend to socialise and drink more during the World Cup, and with Christmas coming, too, there’s even more reason for people to celebrate.
“Go out and have a great time but leave your car keys at home if you’re planning to drink; don’t even be tempted to have one drink – it can so easily lead to more. Either be the designated driver and stick to soft drinks or plan your transport home beforehand.”
Road Safety GB NE has teamed up with children from Harlow Green Community Primary School in Gateshead to highlight the issue.
Mustafaa Malik, the school’s headteacher, said it was delighted to support the campaign.
Mr Malik said: “Although we all want people to enjoy themselves over the coming World Cup and festive period, it is important for our community to do so safely.
“Unfortunately, we know the devastation that can happen when people mix drinking and driving, which is always a huge concern.
“Having our children understand from an early age that these two things don’t mix is important and hopefully they can be part of an essential message that will save lives.”
Can’t help feeling that autonomous vehicles will be of great benefit in this area, but they won’t solve the underlying problem of alcohol and drug abuse.
Fraser Andrew, STIRLING
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