The national drink and drug drive summer campaign is underway and Dorset Police is asking everyone to have fun, drink responsibly and plan to get home safely.
While Dorset Police proactively target drink and drugs drivers throughout the year, this summer operational staff with be actively targeting those driving while under the influence of drink or drugs through dedicated patrols and intelligence led proactive policing, to ensure those who get behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs are dealt with robustly.
Each year almost 1,000 people fail a breath test at the roadside with a further 300 people being arrested for driving whilst under the influence of drugs.
This year Dorset Police want everyone to plan how they are going to get home before they enjoy a few drinks in the pub garden, a Pimms at a barbecue or a night out with friends.
Alliance Roads Policing Inspector Craig Tatton, said: “Unfortunately, my officers see all too often the devastating consequences of people driving or using motorcycles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“It is a choice to get behind the wheel when you have been drinking or taking drugs and there are always alternative ways to get home. This year Dorset Police is asking everyone to plan how they are going to get home before they enjoy a few drinks in the pub garden, at a barbecue or a night out with friends.
“You might think that you’re a good enough driver to drive after a few, but the heat affects the way your body reacts to alcohol and drugs, so it is just not worth the risk.
“Being caught drink or drug driving is the best-case scenario. If you crash your vehicle, you could seriously injure yourself or others, leaving you with that regret forever. My officers and partner agencies we work with always dread ‘that’ call – and knocking on the door and delivering bad news to a family is never something you forget. So please, don’t let a stupid, split-second decision ruin your life or the life of someone else.
“There is no typical drink driver – our officers see people of all ages taking a risk behind the wheel. This summer we want you to have fun, drink responsibly but most importantly, get home safely.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “This year’s Summer Drink Drug Drive campaign in Dorset is all about planning to end your night out safely. As the Police and Crime Commissioner who has set out a vision for Dorset to be the safest county, I really want to encourage you to plan ahead and know who will be driving you home.
“Remember – it’s not just you that’s at risk. You could kill or seriously injure another person by choosing to drive after having a drink or taking drugs. Drink or drug driving destroys people’s lives and those of their families. To avoid this from happening, it’s a simple case of planning ahead, leaving the car at home and using a taxi, public transport or designated driver to get home.”