The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Drink-drive offences 21% up in decade
With Police Scotland launching their summer anti drink-drive campaign this week, figures show driving under the influence (DUI) is 21% higher than it was 10 years ago – and Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire has taken third spot in Scotland for offences.
The drink and drug-drive hotspot of Scotland is Glasgow with 917 offences, followed by North Lanarkshire (774), Aberdeen and
Aberdeenshire (737), Highland (589) and Edinburgh (505). Bottom of the table are Shetland (25) and Orkney (26).
While slightly down on the peak recorded in 202021, there were 7,773 DUI offences in 2021-22 compared with 6,433 in 2012-13.
The Scottish drink-drive limit was lowered in 2014 from 80mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood to 50mg.
A study of 1,000 people in Scotland by breathalyser firm AlcoSense found 53% of motorists have now reduced the amount of alcohol they drink when they know they are driving either later the same day or the following morning.
Hunter Abbott, managing director of AlcoSense, said: “The lower limit has hardened anti drink-drive sentiment among the Scottish public, but there’s still a persistent minority who ignore the law and drive above that limit. That’s why enforcement is so important.”
Police Scotland Chief Superintendent Louise Blakelock, head of road policing, said: “Our officers are out every day dealing with drink and drug drivers. This campaign brings an enhanced focus and we want people to understand it’s not worth the risk. You could lose your licence, your job and impact your loved ones.
“Traffic levels can be higher over the summer months and just one drink can be enough to affect your driving and the safety of those around you.
“If you are concerned someone is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, have the confidence to contact us via 101 or 999 in an emergency and we will take action.”
The campaign will be conducted through intelligence, road checks, and high-visibility and unmarked patrols.
Mr Abbott added: “When you go out drinking this summer, plan ahead for how you’ll get home – whether it’s walking, public transport, taxi or designated alcohol-free driver.”