Thames Valley Police launch summer campaign to tackle drink and drug driving

Police across West Berkshire and North Hampshire will be increasing their focus on drink and drugs driving as they launch their annual summer campaign.

The two week campaign – run by Thames Valley Police and Hampshire Constabulary’s joint Roads Policing Unit – was launched yesterday (Monday) and will work to reduce the risk of harm to road

users.

Chief Inspector Chris Spellerberg, of the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit, said: “The message is simple, if you’re drinking alcohol, let someone else do the driving. If you think you are safe to drive after drinking, think again.

“Operations like this one are vitally important to bring the message home – this is all about saving lives and reducing harm on our roads.

“The consequences of driving while impaired are so impactive, too many people have lost their lives or been seriously injured as a result of drink and drug drivers.

"Even the slightest amount of alcohol or drugs in your system has the ability to effect the way you drive, increasing the risk of serious harm to yourself and other innocent road users.

"Please plan your journeys this summer and make sure a day in the sun doesn't turn into a night in a cell, or worse.

"Our message is simple. Don’t drink or drug drive – it’s not worth the risk.”

Officers said they also want to highlight that drivers may still be over the limit the day after a party, barbecue or beach day.

Police are also keen to highlight that the consequences of a drink driving conviction are severe, with penalties including up to six months in prison, an unlimited fine and a driving ban. Drug driving carries even more serious penalties.

They are urging drivers to plan their journeys home by pre-booking taxis, using public transport or having a designated driver.

The campaign urged drivers to remember that “even the slightest amount of alcohol or drugs in your system has the ability to affect the way you drive, increasing the risk of serious harm to yourself and other innocent road users”.

If you know of anyone who is drink or drug driving you can call 999 in an emergency, 101 with information or report via Crimestoppers.