Festive drink-drive crackdown underway
‘Best approach is none’
Perth and Kinross party-goers enjoying Christmas and new year are being urged to ditch drinkdriving to get them home safely.
Campaigners have launched their annual festive campaign with motorists urged to consider ‘the best approach is none’ when it comes to getting behind the wheel after a night out.
The Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland effort is based on the lower limits for breaking the drink-drive law.
Last year, one in 35 drivers stopped during the festive season were over the legal limit compared with one in 50 motorists drink driving over the same period the previous year.
Increased police patrols started hitting the roads on Friday as part of the enforcement bid.
More than 20,000 drivers are stopped by police every month.
Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said: “More people now know that even one drink before driving is one too many.
“Unfortunately there is a persistent minority of drivers who continue to ignore the law.
“These people are not only risking their own lives, but are risking the safety of other road users and pedestrians by drinking and driving.
“This campaign reinforces that drink driving is unacceptable and, if you get caught, you will get a minimum 12 month driving ban, a criminal record, points on your licence and a substantial fine.
“I welcome the action being taken by Police Scotland to tackle reckless road users who break the law.”
Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins from Police Scotland said: “Between December last year and January 2016, 452 drivers failed a breath test.
“It’s really disappointing that so many people were prepared to cause danger to others as well as themselves.
“We are urging people to plan ahead during the party season.
“Think about how you’re going to get home - before you head out – and don’t forget about any journeys you’ll make the morning after.
“The consequences of drink driving can be devastating and we will be particularly vigilant during the festive period to discourage anyone thinking about drinking and driving, so the best advice if you are planning to drink this Christmas is don’t risk it, don’t drink and drive.”