Crackdown on Devon drink drivers

Police targeting drug-users too

Devon and Cornwall police's annual drink and drug drive summer campaign, this year with a fancy hashtag using slangy grammar #WhosGonnaDriveYouHome, is underway.

Cops will be "proactively patrolling" the roads looking for drivers who have been  drinking or taking drugs.

They say they want people to have fun, but also think about how they're going to get home.

Last summer 385 people failed a breath test at the roadside while 61 people were arrested for driving whilst under the influence of drugs.

Police say people make a choice to get behind the wheel after drinking, there is always an alternative, and that heat affects the way the body reacts to alcohol.

Sergeant Owen Messenger, a road casualty reduction officer said: "Unfortunately all too often our officers see the devastating consequences of people driving or using motorcycles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

"You might think that you're a good enough driver to drive after a few, but please believe me when I say many have thought the same and learnt the hard way that that simply was not the case.

"If you are caught drink or drug driving, you face time in jail, a ban from driving, an unlimited fine or you could potentially lose your job – and that's the best-case scenario. If you crash your vehicle, you risk seriously injuring yourself or others, leaving you with that regret forever. Saying sorry can’t change the outcome of a bad, split-second decision to drive under the influence of drink or drugs."

Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, is chair of the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership.

She said: “Drink driving is completely unacceptable – it puts the driver, passengers and innocent members of the public at substantial risk. Those found guilty of this crime face losing their license and even going to prison, which could cost you your job and livelihood.

“This doesn’t just apply to people who are on a big night out, those driving the morning after a few drinks could also unexpectedly be over the limit and unfit to drive.

The Alliance Roads Policing team are actively on social media, giving tips, advice and information about staying safe on the roads. You can follow this campaign online by searching the hashtag; #WhosGonnaDriveYouHome.

If you have information about someone who you believe is drink or drug driving, you can report it via the Devon & Cornwall Police website - www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/contact

If you are reporting someone who is driving under the influence at that moment, please dial 999.