Law enforcement in the UK is taking measures to crack down on drink and drug driving during the Christmas period. This initiative includes purchasing additional drug wipes to combat the increase in drug-related offenses. The Department for Transport has reported a significant increase in the number of people caught driving under the influence of drugs, and data shows that drivers who consume both alcohol and drugs are 23 times more likely to be involved in a fatal collision.
Chief Inspector Vicky McParland of the Norfolk and Suffolk Roads and Armed Policing Team stresses the importance of recognizing the risk associated with night-time driving, as most drink-drive offenses occur between 7pm and 7am. She also warns that individuals may still be over the legal limit the morning after drinking alcohol or for several days after taking drugs, so it is crucial for drivers to be mindful of their actions. The campaign will run until January 1, with the aim of deterring individuals from driving under the influence.
Lawrence Seager, regional safety programme manager from National Highways, emphasizes the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs, stating that it is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous. The impairment of awareness, judgment, and reaction times can put both the driver and other road users at risk. Support for the campaign is also expressed by Norfolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Giles Orpen-Smellie, who acknowledges the collective responsibility of the community in ensuring safe roads and discouraging friends and family from driving while intoxicated.
The #NoExcuse campaign, which runs from the beginning of December until January 1, seeks to address the issue of drink and drug driving during the festive season. The increased enforcement measures, including the purchase of additional drug wipes and the clear messaging from law enforcement officials and community leaders, aim to deter individuals from engaging in dangerous driving behavior. By raising awareness of the risks and legal consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, the campaign seeks to make the roads safer for everyone.
