Roads Policing Unit Cracks Down on Festive Drink and Drug Driving
The Roads Policing Unit (RPU) is on high alert this December. They’re stepping up patrols to nab anyone who drives under the influence of alcohol or drugs during the festive season.
Road Safety Partnership Hits Town Centres
Partnering with the Road Safety Partnership, officers will also host eye-opening roadshows around the county. The tour kicks off tomorrow (3 December) in Highworth High Street from 9am to 2.30pm, offering interactive sessions that spell out the dangers of drink and drug driving.
Zero Tolerance – Plan Your Journey Home!
“We hold a zero tolerance approach to drink and drug driving all year round,” said Acting Inspector Will Ayres. “But as the festive season kicks in with parties galore, it’s vital everyone enjoys responsibly.
“Plan your journey home or have a designated driver. Driving under the influence is a gamble you can’t afford. We see the heartbreak caused by families torn apart by drink drivers every year. Don’t be the one to destroy a life this Christmas.”
Staggering Arrests from Past Festive Seasons
- The current operation started on 1 December and runs through the entire festive period.
- Last Christmas alone, 45 drivers were arrested for drink driving and 31 for drug driving in Wiltshire.
- From Jan 1 to Oct 31 this year, there were 583 arrests for drink driving and 329 for drug driving – 912 total.
- In 2021, the total was even higher: 1,071 arrests.
“We expect a busy time on Wiltshire’s roads this December,” warned A/Insp Ayres. “Remember, you might feel fine the morning after, but you could still be over the legal limit. Don’t risk your life or others’.”
