THIS festive season, many of us will enjoy having a drink or two – but all Warrington Police want is for people to think twice before they get behind the wheel.
Throughout the Christmas period, and into the New Year police will be running an operation targeting motorists who feel it’s tolerable to drive while under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
Inspector Steve Griffiths, of the Roads Policing Unit said: “I understand that Christmas is a time to celebrate and have fun; however that does not mean that it is acceptable to drive under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
“Doing so slows your reaction time, meaning that you are more likely to be involved in a collision. Both are unacceptable, and in my opinion there is simply no excuse for putting the lives of innocent road users at risks.
“It’s not just about driving home following a night out with friends, it’s also important that everyone thinks about the morning after. Alcohol and illegal drugs affect everyone in different ways and just because you’ve had a couple of hours’ sleep, it doesn’t mean that you’re in a fit state to drive.”
Throughout December the Roads Policing team is running a countywide operation specifically targeting drink and drug drivers. The operation started on Thursday 1st December, and in the first weekend alone officers arrested 23 people for drink driving and 17 people for drug driving.
Anyone who is found to be driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs will be banned from driving, receive a hefty fine and might even face a prison sentence.
Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane said: “This Christmas my thoughts go out to all the families who have lost their loved ones as a result of drink or drug driving.
“Road safety is one of my priorities and it is pleasing to see the work that the roads policing team is undertaking to help make Cheshire roads safer this Christmas.
“Everyone needs to remember that there is no safe drink drive limit, just one drink could take you over the limit. Everybody is different, and although you may feel that you are safe to drive, even a small amount of alcohol can affect your driving.”
Inspector Griffiths added: “My advice is simple, if you are driving then don’t drink any alcohol and don’t take drugs – it could be the difference between life and death.”
Anyone who suspects a driver is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101.
