Drivers warned as police target morning-after impairment
Thames Valley Police are conducting early morning checks following Christmas celebrations
Thames Valley Police are urging people not to get behind the wheel the morning after festive celebrations involving alcohol or drugs.
Detective Chief Inspector Justin Thomas, from the Thames Valley’s Roads Policing Unit, said they will be stopping more vehicles to check for signs of impairment in drivers.
This includes breathalysing and drug testing drivers they suspect are under the influence.
DCI Thomas explained that the Christmas period can often lead to more relaxed attitudes around drink and drug driving, and many people believe they are fit to drive once the night has passed.
“That early morning start when they’ve had activity the night before and think they’re safe to drive, well that isn’t always the case,” he said.
He explained that, in some instances, drivers are still testing positive for drugs days after consuming them.
DCI Thomas said: "The amount of people taking cannabis and cocaine that we’re catching the next day or two or three days after the event – we are still finding that drug in their system.
"They’re still being prosecuted and losing their license. As we say, it’s not worth the risk.”
Beyond driving bans and fines, DCI Thomas is reminding people that driving under the influence can be deadly.
"These people will take other people's lives on the roads through their selfish actions," he said.
Thames Valley Police are stepping up their presence on roads as part of national drink and drug driving campaign Operation Limit, which runs until the New Year.
DCI Thomas said: "You will see more police on the street, you will see these road checks, and officers will be engaging with members of the public."
He noted that most drivers understand and even welcome increased police activity against driving under the influence.
"The vast majority are really supportive and are glad to be stopped and see that we are actively enforcing the legislation," he said.