Somerset Police are just over half-way through annual drink driving campaign and have made 107 arrests so far.
The month-long Operation Tonic campaign includes high visibility and covert patrols aimed at targeting drink and drug drivers.
The arrests have included reports of a drunk man driving a milk delivery vehicle at 5.20am, a father with two children in the car, and a man driving to a school nativity play who was over four times the legal limit.
In addition, Police officers have responded to intelligence about a known drink driver who, upon police contact, rammed a marked car before crashing into a wall and writing off his high-end car.
When a car weaving along M5 ignored officers’ request to stop all four tyres were stung to prevent a pursuit and the driver was arrested for driving under the influence. All those caught driving over the limit will now face serious consequences.
Supt Andy Williams, Head of Road Safety in Avon and Somerset Constabulary says: “We’ve seen some disgraceful circumstances involving intoxicated drivers which show a clear disregard for other road users and even passengers.”
“I hope that with the support of the community and ongoing enforcement and education we will see less drink drivers on the road.”
“We’ve received 292 calls and text reports from the public so far and I encourage anyone who has any information about someone who is driving whilst under the influence to inform us immediately so that we can take action.”
Members of the public are warned that being convicted can affect their everyday life beyond a drink driving fine or ban which could result in a loss of independence, job and financial stability. Family and close friends may also suffer the consequences.
Police are asking members of the public to call 999 if they know about someone who is currently driving under the influence. In less urgent cases and when the driver isn’t behind the wheel, text 07400 279101 with the word ‘drunk’ and details of the car, location and driver.
The consequences of a drink driving conviction
- Being convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol a number of effects on everyday life, beyond a drink driving fine or ban. It could also impact the friends and family around you.
- You could lose your job, particularly if you drive for work as your employer will see this on your licence. You may also find it difficult to seek employment in the future.
- Car insurance costs increase significantly after a drink driving conviction.
- Your criminal record means you may find it hard to enter other countries such as the USA.
Penalties for drink or drug driving
- Being in charge of a vehicle while above the legal limit could result in 3 months’ imprisonment, up to £2,500 fine and a possible driving ban.
- Driving or attempting to drive while above the legal limit could mean 6 months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine and a driving ban for at least 1 year (3 years if convicted twice in 10 years).
- If you refuse to provide a specimen of breath, blood or urine for analysis you may get; 6 months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine and a ban from driving for at least 1 year.
- Causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drink could get mean 14 years’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine, a ban from driving for at least 2 years and an extended driving test before your licence is returned.
