Drivers arrested in Christmas crackdown

ALMOST 300 motorists were caught driving under the influence of drink or drugs over the Christmas period – with one who was five times over the limit. West Midlands Police and the Central Motorway Police Group joined forces for the annual crackdown throughout December.

They arrested 251 motorists for being over the drink-drive limit and a further 40 for being under the influence of illegal substances. The highest recording was 184 micrograms in 100 millilitres of breath – more than five times the legal alcohol limit.

Inspector Jack Boardman, who led the operation, said: “It is completely unacceptable to get behind the wheel while under the influence of drink or drugs.

“It increases the risk of a collision and such irresponsible actions can put the safety of yourself and other road users at risk of serious injury or even death.

“The campaign may now be over, but officers remain on patrol 24/7 to catch those motorists who ignore our warning.”

This Christmas was the first time the force had used 360-degree virtual reality (VR) technology to highlight the very real dangers of drink and drug driving.

The VR headset featured a hardhitting video using actors was shot from the perspective of a passenger in a car being driven by someone over the limit the morning after a heavy drinking session.

It graphically showed the after effects of a high-impact collision as one passenger suffers life-threatening injuries, another is cut free from the car and the driver is arrested.

Police took it around shopping centres across the region on headsets funded by Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), David Jamieson.

Mr Jamieson said: “People driving under the influence of drink or drugs are a menace on our roads. They put their own and other people’s lives at risk.

“I’ve seen first-hand the damage drink and drug driving can have, that is why I’m pleased that in the latest campaign nearly 300 reckless drivers were caught.

“The overwhelming majority of law-abiding motorists are appalled at drink driving and will back the action taken against a small minority to make our roads safer.”

Anyone who suspects someone is drink or drug driving is urged to call police or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.