2:36pm Monday 8th June 2009
POLICE forces around the UK are embarking on a “relentless campaign” to crack down on drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it has been announced.
Officers are set to carry out more stop-checks to prevent intoxicated or drugged-up motorists taking the wheel, said the Association of Chief Police Officers.
The association says nearly 3,000 people are killed on the roads each year and about 500 of the deaths are drink and drug related.
“Year on year we have seen an increase in the number of people breath tested,” said a police spokeswoman.
“We are doing more roadside stop and check operations than ever before, at all times of the day and night and on all types of road.”
Kent Police, which arrests 250 people a month for drink driving offences, says it is trying to target young motorists to prevent them from drink or drug driving in the first place.
A spokesman said police were focusing on things which mattered to young people – “their appearance and job prospects” – to warn motorists if they drive while impaired they risk losing more than their licence.
Inspector Paul Sellwood from Kent’s road policing unit said drivers aged between 17 and 25 were responsible for a number of collisions, and the force will target them to help prevent accidents.
“One the things which is important to young drivers is the impression they give to other people, is that they are very conscious of their looks and their appearance. If they drive under the influence of drink or drugs you can tarnish that.
“I have seen drivers who have gone through the windscreen of their cars and they have suffered extensive facial injuries and disfigurement – they have ruined their whole lives.
“Some young motorists would be more concerned they appear unattractive than getting a fine, so we’re highlighting the consequences of gambling with your looks, love life and career in a bid to reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads.
“We are saying don’t gamble with your future and your lives, don’t gamble with your driving licence – it is not worth taking the risk.”
The campaign, which begins today, will see forces around the country performing more stop checks, testing all drivers who seem under the influence.
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