999 forces to clamp down on those unfit to be on road
EMERGENCY services say they are working together this year to launch another seasonal campaign to tackle those who take to the roads while under the influence of drink and drugs.
Throughout December, Derbyshire Constabulary, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and Highways England will all join forces to promote the work they will each be doing to keep on top of what is predicted to be a rise in the number of cases of driving under the influence.
In Derbyshire over the last three-years, Derbyshire police say they have recorded 286 collisions, where one or more driver was impaired with alcohol or drugs.
These resulted in causing 404 injured casualties, with 92 being seriously injured and 11 people were, sadly, killed in these tragic events.
Inspector Greg Hunt, roads policing unit lead said: “We understand that people are going to want to go out and celebrate this Christmas, especially after the previous two-year festive plans not going to plan.
“All we ask, is that you do so responsibly and if you’ve had a drink do not be tempted to drive - you’ll not only be placing your life in danger, but the lives of other innocent people around you.
“My officers will stop anyone suspected of drink or drug driving and we’ll be operating check-sites across Derbyshire to perform both breath and drug testing.
“Anyone caught under the influence whilst driving will risk up to six months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine and a substantial driving ban.
“Anyone who causes a death while drink or drug driving will face up to 14 years’ imprisonment.”
The three organisations recently met up at the East Midlands Designer Outlet to talk to members of the public, highlighting the dangers posed by drink and drug driving and sharing their firsthand accounts of dealing with the devastating aftermath that these offences cause to families and communities. A car from a road traffic collision, where the driver was almost three times over the drink drive limit, along with the life-saving equipment used to help those involved in such incidents, were used to show the consequences that can occur for those who choose to drink and drive.
Station manager Ian Snodgrass, from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue, said: “As we head into the festive party season, we are once again asking people to understand the consequences of getting behind the wheel when intoxicated.
“We know people will be going out and celebrating, but we also know, and all too often see the consequences of driving under the influence of drink, or drugs.
“Our message is therefore quite simple, Don’t Get Wrecked. If you’re planning to party, ensure you have a designated driver, or get a taxi booked.”
Derbyshire police and crime commissioner Angelique Foster said: “Keeping our roads and the people using them safe is a top priority.
“I fully support any campaign that reminds drivers of their responsibilities when getting behind the wheel and equally punishes those who fail to heed the warnings.
“Drink or drug driving is one of the four main causes of road traffic deaths or injuries in the UK.
“Enforcement is part of a wider preventative approach that is employed 365 days-ayear to keep road users safe, especially at Christmas when temptation and opportunity increases.
“Despite greater public awareness and publicity of the risks of drink or drug driving, there are still too many drivers who choose to ignore the law.
They are not only risking their own lives but the lives of others and for this they must face the full legal consequences of their actions.”
The charity Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to £1,000 for information on a drink or drug driver, which leads to the arrest of one or more individuals resulting in them being formally charged.
To report an incident anonymously, call 0800 555 111.
To contact the police, call 101 or message them on social media. If there is an immediate danger to life, always call 999.
Our message is quite simple... Don’t Get Wrecked.
Ian Snodgrass