Suffolk Police step up drink and drug driving enforcement ahead of New Year’s Eve
They want people to plan how they're getting home so everyone can be safe
Police are urging motorists to think carefully before getting behind the wheel ahead of New Year’s Eve, as officers continue an intensified drink and drug driving campaign running through the festive period.
Roads policing inspector Byron Hearsum said the shift in focus reflects worrying national trends.
“Whilst again it’s very much based around drink drive this year, there’s a significant focus around drug drive,” he said.
Police figures show that between 2014 and 2023, there was a 70 per cent increase in driver fatalities where drugs were a factor, with around 90 per cent of drivers impaired by drugs involved in collisions being men.
“Which is putting them at a higher risk,” Insp. Hearsum said. “So whilst we’re still enforcing the drink drive element, we are going to be paying some real attention to the drug drive side this year.”
Police action
Officers will be carrying out increased roadside breath tests and drug wipes, with enforcement activity taking place day and night across the county.
“More officers will be out conducting roadside drug tests and breath tests,” Insp Hearsum said. “This will be enforcement or intelligence-led operations or team policing events.”
Anyone stopped by police for a traffic offence, involved in a collision, or whose driving causes concern can expect to be tested.
“Everyone that is stopped… they will be breathalysed and drug wiped,” he said.
Consequences of drink or drug driving
Police say the consequences of driving under the influence can be devastating, both immediately and long-term.
“There could be someone on the roads that’s impaired and that can have a devastating effect,” Insp Hearsum said. “That’s not only on the family — that can be on the driver that decides to make that decision as well.”
He warned that even when collisions are avoided, the personal impact of a conviction can be life-changing.
“It’s a minimum of a 12-month ban. You’re going to have to declare that to your insurance companies forevermore,” he said.
“Some insurance companies won’t insure someone that’s been convicted of a drink or drug driving offence.”
Insp Hearsum added that losing the ability to drive can affect employment, independence, and the ability to travel, and in the most serious cases, lead to prison.
“If it ends really badly… the consequences are even worse still, because you will be facing an imprisonment term.”
Alongside enforcement, police are asking the public to play their part by reporting suspected drink or drug drivers.
“They’ll be responding to reports from the public that have concerns about the manner of driving,” Insp Hearsum said.
With New Year’s Eve expected to bring parties, social events and celebrations, police are reminding drivers to plan ahead.
“Don’t take the risk in terms of driving impaired,” he said. “Use a taxi, public transport, stay over, or have a designated driver.”
He also urged motorists to drive to winter conditions and show patience on the roads.
“If we all react to the conditions and we’re a bit more patient around other road users, then there’s a likelihood that we will all get to where we’re going and be able to enjoy the festive period.”
Police say enforcement will continue through New Year’s Day, with zero tolerance for those who put lives at risk by driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.