World Cup means more drink-driving

Now the World Cup has kicked off, it is likely that more people than usual may be tempted to drink and drive.

“There may be a lot to celebrate this summer – a World Cup win, and even possibly a long, hot summer – but if you’re going to be drinking, don’t drive.”

That was the message from the Association of Chief Police
Officers (ACPO) as the annual month-long crack down on drunk
drivers kicked off on 1 June.

Police officers will be out in force during the campaign in a bid to crack down on those who think they can drink and drive and get away with it. They will also be checking on drivers who may be impaired by drugs.

ACPO lead on drink and drugdriving, Deputy Chief Constable Adam Briggs, said: “Year on year we have seen an increase in the number of people breath-tested by forces across the UK.

“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 – and with more drivers stopped than ever before.”

Last year just over 121,000 people were stopped and tested
during the 30-day summer campaign, with 5.79% testing positive or refusing a test.

Forces around the country are introducing some innovative and
creative ways to educate drivers on the dangers of drinking and driving.

PHOTO: GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE

Gwent Police has invited a group of children to spread the word that drinking and driving don’t mix through a short film. In one scene, a couple of adults are forced to make their way home on their children’s bike and scooter after being caught driving under the influence of alcohol.

Northamptonshire is running a series of radio adverts targeting men with the tag line “It takes a hard man to order a soft drink”.

Leicestershire launched its first monthly live Web chat with the Roads Policing, talking about drinking and driving and the summer campaign.

An advertising campaign organised by the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership encourages motorists not to drink like a fish – “A fish could drink all through the match but would never dream of driving. Don’t let it go to penalties, don’t drink and drive.”

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