The perils of drinks-driving
Action focused on “party safe.” Rather worryingly, though, there has been an increase over the course of the last week in those choosing to drive under the influence of drink or drugs.
Four people were arrested for being over the drink drive limit in the last few days.
Offenders have been caught all across Stirlingshire with arrests made in Causewayhead Road, Stirling, in Strathblane and Balfron. One person was three-times over the legal drink drive limit.
It is extremely disappointing that so many people are prepared to risk not only their own lives, but those of other road-users and pedestrians.
Let me be clear, drink OR drive – it’s your choice but you cannot do both. In addition to a criminal record, if you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol you will automatically be banned from driving, may have your car seized and could receive a fine of up to £5,000 or a prison sentence. If you are caught “the morning after”, you face exactly the same consequences as if you had been arrested the night before.
More importantly, the long-term consequences for you and the families of those killed by drivers under the influence of drink or drugs are devastating and last a lifetime so please do not put your life or that of another person at risk.
Be aware that, over the festive period, officers here in Stirlingshire will be carrying out intelligence-led patrols and conducting static road checks so if you do decide to drink and drive, chances are you will be arrested.
Should you suspect someone of drink or drugs driving, please call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it to your local police office by dialling 101. In an emergency, you can also dial 999.