Police Scotland has today launched its annual summer drink/drug drive campaign.
The two week campaign will combine high visibility patrols and roadside checks to catch those driving under the influence of drink or drugs.
Chief Superintendent Andy Edmonston, Head of Road Policing, said: “Over the next two weeks our increased visibility and activity throughout the country aims to reassure the public that drink/drug driving is unacceptable. If you choose to drink and drive or drive whilst unfit due to the effects of drugs there is a high likelihood that you will be caught.
“Even if you’re just over the limit, you’re still a drink driver in the eyes of the law – there is no grey area. This may affect your current and future employment and can have wider implications for other areas of your life including overseas travel.
“If you drink and drive, you won’t just spoil summer, the effects can last a lifetime.
“Our message is simple – the best approach is none.”
Police Scotland is committed to achieving the Scottish Government’s 2020 casualty reduction targets. Tackling the risks associated with drink/drug driving will support the Force’s efforts to reduce road casualties.
Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said: “Since the introduction of the lower drink drive limit attitudes towards drinking and driving are changing.”
“But we know that during warmer weather the chances of going for unplanned drinks can increase and many people may not have thought about their journey home ahead of time.”
“We want everyone to enjoy their summer which is why enforcement campaigns such as this one are essential to tackling the small minority of reckless road users who continue to break the law but also to remind the general public that drink driving is never worth the risk.”
Anyone with information on drink/drug drivers can contact Police Scotland on 999 in an emergency. Alternatively call 101 or Crimestoppers in complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
