Motorists in the North East are being reminded about the dangers of drink/drug driving this Christmas as the latest figures show too many deaths and injuries on the region’s roads are linked to people over the limit.
Road Safety GB North East (RSGB NE) is joined by police and fire services from across the North East in urging people to ‘give the gift of a lift’ by being the designated driver, or arranging a taxi home after a night out.
They said the only safe option was soft drinks when planning to get behind the wheel, as one drink could quickly become more, and that’s when poor choices are made.
During the past five years, more than 1,200 people have been injured in the region in collisions involving a driver who was found to be over the drink or drug limit. Sadly, 46 were killed, and 429 were seriously injured.
The latest figures showed that young people aged between 17 and 34 accounted for almost 50% of those people involved in collisions, and injured or killed, where drink/drug driving had been a feature.
With Christmas around the corner, people are being advised to plan their transport early and to make the decision beforehand whether to drink or drive.
For those who do drink, they are urged to think about the morning after, too. It takes roughly one hour for one unit of alcohol to leave the body, meaning someone who has drank six pints of beer or six glasses of wine will require at least 12 hours before getting behind the wheel. It could be longer, depending on the person’s constitution, and if they have taken medication or not eaten.
Peter Slater, RSGB NE chair, said: “The number of people killed or seriously injured on the roads where alcohol or drugs have been a factor has remained stubbornly high over the past five years, and December continues to be one of the worst months of the year for incidents.
“We know people want to enjoy the festive season, but we’re urging them to think before they drive. If you’re planning a night out, please leave your car keys at home. Don’t be tempted to have just one – it can easily lead to more. Either be the designated driver and stick to soft drinks or plan how you are getting home beforehand. It’s a simple decision that could save your life or someone else’s.”
Chief inspector Zoe Kelsey, of Cleveland Police’s Matrix Team, said: “If you choose to drive under the influence, you are putting yourself and others in danger – and we will stop you. Anyone who drinks alcohol or takes drugs and drives can expect to be stopped, arrested, and prosecuted.
“Our message is simple: don’t drink or drug drive. Make the right choice and help everyone enjoy a safe and happy Christmas.”
Lee Brown, assistant director of prevention, protection and planning at Cleveland Fire Brigade, said: “This Christmas, your choices behind the wheel could save a life, or take one. Across the Cleveland Fire Brigade area between 2019–2023, drink or drug driving killed more than 30 people and devastated families in our community.
“Don’t become part of that grim statistic. Choose a designated driver, plan your journey, and make sure every trip ends safely, because your life, and the lives of others, depend on it.”
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