Cumbria police today issued the results of their Christmas Drink and Drug Drive Campaign. The annual crackdown ran from Wednesday 1 December 2010 to Saturday 1 January 2011.
Due to the severe weather in December the traffic on the roads reduced significantly meaning less breath tests were performed this year, a total of 1,641 breath tests were taken with a total of 58 drivers providing positive breath tests. This meant that 3.5 per cent of those tested were over the limit.
This is a reduction on last year when 5% of those tested during the festive period were over the limit. Last year a total of 2,334 breath tests were taken with 116 drivers providing positive breath tests.
Alongside the usual breath tests, Officers also conducted Field Impairment Tests (FIT tests) on the roadside to test motorists for illegal drugs. Of the 7 FIT tests undertaken by drivers 3 were arrested for being under the influence of illegal drugs.
Inspector Paul Madden from Cumbria’s Roads Policing Unit, said: “We are pleased to have seen a reduction in the percentage of positive breath tests this year and this shows that our warnings and safety messages are being listened to. However, it is still extremely worrying that, a significant number of people continue to ignore our advice and put their lives and those of others at risk on our roads.
“Unfortunately of the 446 young drivers under the age of 25 that were breath tested 24 drivers provided a positive test. This meant that 5.38 per cent of those tested were over the limit. We will continue the work we do with young drivers under Operation Orwell and the message of drinking and driving will continue to be enforced.
“The effects of driving under the influence of drink and drugs can be devastating and will not be tolerated in Cumbria.
“We will continue to crack down on those who are intent on driving under the influence of drink and drugs. Everyone should take responsibility for road safety by reminding friends and family to drive safely and by reporting anyone they know to be drink or drug driving to police immediately.”
Of the 58 people who tested positive in this latest clampdown, 17 had been involved in collisions, providing a stark reminder of the risks associated with drink driving.
Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said “Whilst our figures are in line with the national figures, I am disappointed that there are some people who continue to ignore our warnings and put lives at risk by driving under the influence of drink or drugs.
“There is no excuse for this and we will not tolerate those who needlessly endanger the lives of other road users.
“The penalties for drink and drug driving include fines, the loss of driving licences and even prison, but these are nothing compared to the risk of injury and loss of life that rises steeply when motorist’s reactions are impaired by alcohol or drugs.
“During 2011 we will continue to target those who choose to drink and drug drive and are committed to making the roads of Cumbria safer.”
If you suspect someone is drink or drug driving call police on 0845 33 00 247 or call 999 in an emergency.
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