Make it none for the road

Drivers in Scotland are being reminded that there is zero tolerance for ‘just one’ drink before driving.

A new festive awareness campaign from the Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland (part of Transport Scotland) reinforces that when it comes to drink-driving, the best approach is none, as well as highlighting the consequences of being found guilty of the offence.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson launched the month-long enforcement and awareness campaign in Edinburgh with Deputy Chief Constable Iain Livingstone and Chief Superintendent Stewart Carle.

Police Scotland’s enforcement campaign has seen more patrols on the roads from Friday, December 1.

Last year one in 30 drivers stopped during the festive season was over the legal drink limit compared with one in 35 motorists over the same period in previous year.

More than 20,000 drivers are stopped by the police every month.

In the eyes of the law it doesn’t matter if you’re only slightly over the limit, you are still a drunk driver and a criminal – there is no grey area.

Mr Matheson said: “Unfortunately there is a persistent minority of drivers who continue to ignore the law.

“These people are not only risking their own lives and licences but are risking the safety of others 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 for a lengthy period and a substantial fine.

“Furthermore, a drink-driving conviction can have significant social and employment consequences.

“I welcome the action being taken by Road Safety Scotland and Police Scotland to tackle those who think it is okay to have just one drink and drive their car, as well as reckless road users, both of whom are breaking the law.

Deputy Chief Constable Iain Livingstone, said: “Between December last year and January 2017, 625 drivers failed a breath test.

“It’s disappointing that some drivers are continuing to take unnecessary risks, affecting their own safety and that of other road users.

“Police Scotland have a zero tolerance policy on drink-driving and over the festive period we will be increasing our activity to ensure those risk-takers are removed from the road.

“We’re urging people to plan ahead to help keep our roads safe over the party season. Think about how you’re going to get home before going out – and journeys you’ll make the morning after.”

●For more information log on to dontriskit.info or the Road Safety Scotland Facebook and Twitter (@ roadsafetyscot) pages. Or go to roadsafetyscotland.org.uk

There is a persistent minority of drivers who continue to ignore the law