Avon and Somerset Police target drink driving after "tragic" year on the roads
Officers are looking to prevent deaths after one in four fatal crashes involved alcohol or drugs
Avon and Somerset Police have launched their annual Christmas campaign to tackle drink and drug driving in a bid to reduce serious crashes after a devastating year on the region's roads.
The month-long operation, beginning on 1st December 2025, will include roadside stops and public outreach to address behaviour behind the wheel.
Drink and drug driving has been a factor in 25 percent of fatal collisions across Avon and Somerset this year, according to police figures.
Officers will conduct targeted roadside checks across the county while using modern tools like ANPR cameras and CCTV as part of their strategy.
Inspector Matt Boiles spoke about the dangers drivers pose when choosing to drink and drive:
“There is no safe way to drink and drive – not at Christmas, not any day of the year. Even small amounts of alcohol or drugs can seriously impair your judgement, reaction times, and coordination, putting lives at risk.”
The campaign follows a concerning toll from 2025, where drink or drugs were cited as a factor in 50 collisions causing death or serious injury.
Eight of the 32 fatal collisions already reported this year were connected to intoxicated driving. Police hope the operation will encourage people to report suspected offenders using community intelligence or a new QR code reporting system.
Calls for public action to save lives
Clare Moody, police and crime commissioner for Avon and Somerset, described the deaths caused by impaired drivers as preventable and called on the public to act.
“Any life lost to such reckless behaviour is one too many. If you know someone is driving under the influence, please report it – your action could save a life,” Moody said.
Charity Crimestoppers, which offers anonymous reporting, emphasized the importance of stopping dangerous drivers before fatal incidents occur.
Karen MacDonald, regional manager, said, “Those under the influence of drink or drugs are far more likely to cause a crash, sometimes with fatal consequences. Being able to give information anonymously with no comeback is so worthwhile as it helps tackle these kinds of dangerous and criminal behaviours.”
Key factors behind fatal collisions
Avon and Somerset Police highlighted the 'Fatal Five' offences associated with higher risks of severe crashes on the roads. These are:
- Drink and drug driving
- Excess speed
- Failure to wear a seatbelt
- Driver distraction, such as using a mobile phone
- Careless driving
Through enforcement and public education during this Christmas campaign, police hope to deter these behaviours, which significantly increase the likelihood of crashes.
Practical advice to plan ahead
Authorities have shared tips to help people avoid dangerous driving during the festive season:
- Offer a place to stay for friends who might drive drunk
- Designate a sober driver within your group or plan ahead with taxis or public transport
- Choose non-alcoholic drinks during a night out
- Avoid driving the morning after drinking, as you may still be over the limit
Police are also urging people to challenge others who intend to drink-drive and refuse to get into a car with an intoxicated driver.
To report someone you suspect is drink-drug driving currently, call 999 straight away.
Avon and Somerset Police also offer an anonymous online form and an in-person option at local stations. Their website includes a QR code feature for quick reporting via mobile devices.