Warning for drink drivers as police ramp up road checks
As the festive party season gets into full swing, Renfrewshire police are warning revellers to leave the car at home.
Police Scotland will step up patrols across the region as they target drink and drug drivers in the run up to the Christmas period.
The annual road safety campaign urges drivers to think about the devastating consequences getting behind the wheel while over the limit can have.
Inspector Gillian Gardner, head of the road policing unit for Renfrewshire and Inverclyde, has called on people to enjoy themselves responsibly.
She told the Express: “Our festive safety campaign runs until January 2.
“We target motorists who may be under the influence of drink or drugs throughout the year, and traditionally we run a campaign aimed at highlighting the risks throughout the festive season.
“The message I have for drivers this Christmas is — don’t risk it. There is no safe limit.
“Last year, one in 30 drivers stopped across Scotland during this period were found to be over the limit when breathalysed, with 625 drivers failing a breath test.
“In recent months, we have seen an increase of around 30 per cent in detections of drink driving.
“This is worrying, but also shows that members of the public are increasingly reporting drink or drug drivers to us.
“It is important that drivers think about the potentially devastating consequences, not only for themselves, but for other road users.
“Road division officers will be carrying out static road checks, along with mobile patrols, in marked and unmarked cars across Renfrewshire.
Inspector Gardner also urged party-goers makes sure they plan ahead before heading out on a night out.
She added: “If you are going out over the Christmas period and plan to have a drink, then I would ask that you plan ahead.
“Make sure you have organised a lift or booked a taxi.
“We want people to enjoy themselves, but we want them to do so responsibly.
“I would urge members of the public who suspect someone may be driving, or about to drive under the influence to call 999 immediately.
“I would also ask members of the public who may have information about drink or drug driving to call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”