Cumbria police today issued the results of their Christmas Drink Driving Campaign.
The annual crackdown ran from 1st December 2011 to 1st January 2012. During that period, officers conducted 3,345 breath tests across the county, of which 88 either proved positive for traces of alcohol, or the driver failed or refused to provide a test. 33 of the positive tests, or failures to provide a test, followed a collision.
This means that 2.6 per cent of motorists tested for alcohol were over the limit.
In December 2010, 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. Cumbria experienced particularly bad weather in December 2010, meaning far fewer motorists used the county’s roads and, consequently, a much smaller number of breath tests were carried out by police.
Officers are pleased with the reduction in the rate of people caught drink driving, but disappointed that a minority of motorists continue to put other road users at risk by getting behind the wheel after having a drink.
Inspector Andy Wilkinson from Cumbria’s Roads Policing Unit, said “We are pleased to have seen a reduction in the percentage of positive breath tests but it is still quite shocking that there are so many people who continue to ignore the law and risk the lives of other road users by drink driving.
“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 alcohol. Everyone should take responsibility for road safety by reminding friends and family to drive safely and by reporting anyone they know to be drink driving to police immediately.”
Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said “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 2012 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 driving call police on 101 or call 999 in an emergency.
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