Police forces in Wales arrested more than 500 motorists for driving under the influence during the 2018 festive drink and drug drive campaign.
Led by North Wales Police, the campaign ran throughout December 2018 and resulted in 368 drink driving arrests and 179 for drug driving.
In north Wales, more people tested positive for drugs (84) than alcohol (83) – while in south Wales, 179 arrests were made for drink driving.
Supt Jane Banham, North Wales Police Roads Policing Unit, said: “It is disappointing that people are still prepared to take the risk and get behind the wheel whilst under the influence.
“A notable difference for us in north Wales is that there have been more drivers who have tested positive for drugs than alcohol. Whilst this is a concern, it is a reflection of our ability to carry out roadside tests for cannabis and cocaine.
“I don’t think people are quite grasping the full extent of the danger drug driving poses. Those that do take the risks clearly don’t think about the families of those people who have died at the hands of a driver who is impaired by drugs or alcohol.”
Teresa Ciano, chair of Road Safety Wales, said: “The majority of people are completely aware that using a vehicle after drinking alcohol or taking drugs is dangerous and most thankfully make alternative arrangements to travel.
“Unfortunately, some people are still willing to put themselves or innocent road users at risk and only really learn the consequences of their actions if they’re caught by the police or are involved in a life-changing collision.”
Meanwhile, with the weather this weekend set to be unusually warm for the time of year, North Wales Police is urging motorists to pay extra attention to their safety in anticipation of increased traffic on the region’s roads.
Supt Jane Banham added: “Our message is clear – we want people to enjoy the freedom of the road but to do so safely and responsibly.
“All too often police and our partners in the other emergency services are called to serious and fatal road traffic collisions across the region.
“Staying safe on the road applies to every single one of us, whether we have two or four wheels on our vehicle.”
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