Avon and Somerset Police have launched their Christmas roads policing operation in the Burnham-On-Sea area with officers out conducting proactive roadside checks and talking to motorists about the dangers of drink and drug driving.
The force’s Christmas roads policing operation, which runs throughout December, is also using community intelligence to target drivers potentially under the influence of drink or drugs.
Police are asking the public to let them know if they suspect someone may be driving while intoxicated.
Police say the information received is used in conjunction with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and CCTV data to alert officers to the whereabouts of potential offenders, enabling them to take swift action.
Drink and drug driving was a factor in a third of road traffic collisions (RTCs) in 2021, which involved the deaths of 12 people.
Inspector Rob Barker, Roads Policing lead at Avon and Somerset Police, says: “My message to the public this Christmas is this. If you know someone that regularly drinks or takes drugs and gets behind the wheel, then your action- or inaction – could make a real difference to the wellbeing of other road users.”
“Your report could prevent serious consequences by helping us take a dangerous and irresponsible driver off the road before they can cause harm.”
“During December, we’ll be actively targeting motorists who pose a risk to others by choosing to drink and drug drive, as well as carrying out proactive stop checks at key roadside locations both day and night.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford adds: “It is shocking that despite the well-known risks, individuals continue to make the reckless choice to drink and drug drive, endangering the lives of others.”
“As Police and Crime Commissioner; I urge everyone to choose responsibility over recklessness during the festive period and beyond. I support this proactive operation to tackle dangerous drivers as every journey should be a safe journey.”
Causing death by careless driving whilst under the influence of drink/drugs carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Reports of drink/drug drivers can be made online at: Report drink and drug driving | Avon and Somerset Police or by calling 101.
Alternatively reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or their website at: Drink and drug driving | Crimestoppers.
If someone is currently driving under the influence of drink or drugs, call 999.
For key facts about the effects and potential consequences of drink and drug driving, visit Alcohol and drug driving.
