Motorists warned of zero tolerance approach
The Justice Secretary and Police Scotland have launched this year’s festive campaign to tackle drinkand drug-driving.
This is the first festive enforcement and awareness campaign to include the use of the new drug-drive laws which came into force last month. Almost 100 people have provided positive roadside tests for drugs since the law came into force.
The campaign highlights the criminal and personal consequences of being found guilty of driving a vehicle while under the influence alcohol or with drugs in your system.
Latest figures show drivers in Argyll and West Dunbartonshire are in the top five most likely to be caught drink driving, at 3.3 per cent of those for whom a breath test was requested.
Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf said: ‘Driving a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is totally unacceptable and puts not only the driver, but passengers and other road users, at risk of serious injury or even death.
‘As well as such devastating consequences, drivers caught drink or drug-driving also face significant criminal penalties which could result in them losing their licence or their liberty.
‘The new drug-driving law and Scotland’s low driver-alcohol limit are focused on making our roads safer for everyone.’
Road policing west commander Chief Inspector Darren Faulds added: ‘As we move into the festive party season, I want to remind motorists of the devastating consequences driving with alcohol or drugs in their system can have on their and others lives.
‘New roadside testing for drugs was introduced on October 21 and, disappointingly, we have seen nearly 100 people provide positive tests in the first four weeks. Our festive drink- drug-driving campaign started on December 1 and we will have dedicated resources on patrol, targeting motorists at all times of the day who choose to take the risk of taking drugs and driving or drinking and driving.
‘I am urging people in Argyll and West Dunbartonshire to think if you have to drive what could the consequences be to your life if you do it under the influence of drink or drugs. Always remember and think about how you’re going to get home safely and don’t forget about the impact alcohol can still have the morning after.’