A total of 109 drink and drug-driving offences were recorded in Lanarkshire during last year’s festive period, as per an initiative by the Scottish Government and Police Scotland. The campaign aims to tackle the issue of drink and drug-driving after a record number of motorists were caught driving under the influence during the same period last year.
Police Scotland is warning offenders that driving with alcohol or drugs in their system not only endangers themselves but also others on the road. With the ability to conduct immediate roadside drug testing, officers are able to catch drug-drivers more efficiently, with almost 50% of tests showing positive results.
Statistics from 2022 indicate that drink-driving led to 30 deaths and 280 injuries. Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs, Angela Constance, stressed the devastating consequences of driving under the influence, highlighting the risks of losing one’s licence, job, facing hefty fines, and the impact on families.
Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, head of road policing, emphasised the importance of making transport plans before heading out to events. The campaign underscores how even one drink can put drivers over the limit, and the fact that one can still be unfit to drive the morning after consuming alcohol or drugs.
Offenders caught driving under the influence could face penalties including a 12-month driving ban, fines up to £5000, penalty points on their licence, and up to six months in prison. The campaign encourages behaviour change and urges the public to play their part in improving road safety by discouraging friends and family from driving under the influence.
The new advertising campaign will run during the festive period on various platforms to raise awareness about the dangers of drink and drug-driving. It aims to remind people that it is easy to get caught under the influence, even with just one drink, and that the effects can be long-lasting.
In conclusion, it is crucial for drivers to prioritise road safety by refraining from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The initiative by the Scottish Government and Police Scotland serves as a reminder of the severe consequences that come with such actions and the collective responsibility we all have in ensuring safer roads for everyone.