Motorists in Suffolk urged to stop and think before drink or drug driving
Suffolk's Police and Crime Commissioner is reminding drivers of the consequences in the build up to NYE
Drivers in Suffolk are being reminded of the consequences of getting behind the wheel after having a drink or taking drugs.
The county's police force is now urging motorists to think about the devastating impacts that driving under the influence can have.
As the countdown to New Year's Eve continues, the force's Roads and Policing Team will be out and about on the roads, breathalysing suspicious drivers, in an attempt to crack down on the number of people who are seriously injured or killed every year.
If a driver is caught driving over the limit, the individual could face six months imprisonment, fined and handed a driving ban for at least a year.
Chief Inspector Vicky McParland said: “The message is simple – do not drive under the influence.
“It is important to note that alcohol and drugs can stay in your system for longer than you may realise. You could still be under the effects of drugs for days after you have consumed them.
“Losing your licence has a huge impact on your life. Your car insurance costs will rise dramatically and if you have to drive for work, you could lose your job. It may even affect your ability to travel to other countries.”
Tim Passmore, Police & Crime Commissioner for Suffolk, told us each year they see a rise in cases during this time:
“Drink and drug driving kills and there is absolutely no excuse for anyone to drive if they are impaired.
“I’d like to think the message is getting through but sadly there are still drivers prepared to risk their own lives and the lives of others.
“This year the drive-drive campaign highlights the impact that losing your licence will have on life going forward. "I’d like to encourage everyone to stop and think for a minute what the consequences of losing your driving licence would have on everyday life.
"How will the children get to school, how will you get to work, do your shopping or visit friends and family? I’m sure if we all think about how dramatically life would change, we’d think twice before having that drink before driving.”
Norfolk and Suffolk Constabularies have secured additional funding from National Highways to purchase drug wipes to be used throughout the campaign to expand their testing capabilities.
In an emergency always call 999.