Forcewide: Police Focus on Driving Whilst Under the Influence

During the next few weeks, the Roads Policing Unit will be taking part in a national campaign focusing on drink and drug drivers.

Driving under the influence is one of the Fatal Five and, as such, is always a priority for officers as they try to educate and prevent fatal collisions on our region’s roads.

The summer months can be the most challenging for Roads Policing officers and particularly during this year’s heatwaves.

Roads Policing Sergeant Paul Long said: “This campaign is focused on educating people about the dangers of driving under the influence and enforcing traffic legislation to prosecute offenders.

“Through education and enforcement we continue to try to change behaviours and attitudes towards drink and drug driving. Regrettably, it remains a national problem and ongoing focused campaigns are necessary to continue to tackle the issue.

“We will also be paying particular attention to repeat offenders and would ask anyone who suspects someone of driving whilst under the influence to report it to us on 101.

“Officers will be out across the region, stopping drivers suspected of driving under the influence. We will be conducting regular roadside tests, and acting on information from colleagues and the public about specific drivers who are believed to be flouting the laws by driving whilst under the influence.

“Driving whilst under the influence is completely unacceptable. I would appeal to anyone considering driving under the influence of drink or drugs to consider the devastating impact it can have on the friends and families of themselves, and on other road users impacted by their behaviour.”

Between January 2019 and April 2022 there were approximately 5000 arrests for drink and drug driving offences in our area. Of these, around 450 were arrested on more than one occasion, with just under 80 arrested at least three times.

Drink and drug drivers can face an unlimited fine, a 12-month ban from driving, a criminal record and time in prison, as well as the guilt of potentially endangering another person’s life.

“If you are out and have had a drink, please arrange transport home which doesn’t involve you behind the wheel.

“You also have to consider your alcohol consumption if you plan on driving the next day. It takes an hour to process a single unit of alcohol and whilst you may try to sleep, eat or shower, the only thing that can sober you up is time.

“If you are caught driving under the influence it’s not just your licence that you risk – it could be your whole future.”

Humberside Police are asking for people to call 101 to report any people suspected of driving under the influence in your area, or call 999 if a crime is currently taking place.

That call could quite easily save lives.