Lancashire Constabulary’s summer drink driving campaign will be launched tomorrow (Saturday 1st June).
The crackdown will see high-profile enforcement activity take place across the county throughout the month of June with a focus on under 25s and daytime drinkers.
There will be checkpoints at key locations where officers will administer drink and drugs tests.
Chief Inspector Debbie Howard said: “We know that people like to make the most of the warmer weather in the summer months and this can sometimes lead to more alcohol being consumed.
“We want people to enjoy themselves but to be aware of the dangers of driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“The consequences of drink driving are high – a conviction could mean that you lose your job, home, family and friends. Not only that but you are more likely to cause a road crash than a driver who hasn’t been drinking, potentially resulting in serious injury or even death.”
In 2012, 44,996 drivers were required to provide a roadside breath test in Lancashire. Of these drivers, 1,690 – or 3.8 per cent – failed or refused the test.
“It has taken years of hard work to change attitudes to drink driving and achieve the much safer roads we have now,” notes Paul Binks, Lancashire County Council road and transport safety manager.
“The work being carried out by the police this summer is vital to ensure that people continue to realise the risk of killing or seriously injuring an innocent person or themselves if they drink and drive.”
Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw added: “I am totally supportive of the Constabulary’s efforts to ensure our roads are safer this summer.
“We all want to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on the county’s roads, and any initiative which raises awareness of the harm driving under the influence of drink or drugs can do has to be a good thing for all residents.”
• If you would like to report someone who you suspect of driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, contact the police on 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.