Lancashire Police are urging motorists not to drink or drug drive throughout the festive season.
Operation Limit is a national campaign that runs throughout December. It aims to prevent drug and drink-related casualties across the Christmas period.
Extra road policing patrols will be out across the county, as well as using drink and drug check sites. The campaign also involves messaging on pub screens, petrol pumps and other locations.
The campaign will see officers out between now and the New Year stopping drivers at checkpoints and targeting people where intelligence suggests they may be drink or drug-driving.
Police say they know everybody will want to indulge in some festive cheer, but want to make it clear they will not tolerate anybody putting lives in danger – whether they’ve had a heavy night out or just a little tipple with lunch, they could be over the limit, and the consequences are never worth it.
‘Last December, police conducted 307 drug wipes and 2,189 breath tests. Officers arrested and charged 314 people with either drink or drug driving. Each year, this figure sadly rises, particularly with regards to drug driving offences.
Figures show men between the ages of 20-39 make up more than half of all drink and drug drivers. Many of these men still test positive from drugs or alcohol consumed the night before.
Supt Dave Hannan from Lancashire Police said: "We carry out activity all year round to keep our roads safe. But we know that Christmas is a busy time on the road network. With more parties and social events, people will potentially be indulging more. The wintry weather also brings extra risks.
“Everyone on our roads has a responsibility to keep themselves and others safe. We have zero tolerance for those who choose to drive impaired.
‘’Regardless of how confident you feel about your driving ability under the influence, you are risking serious harm or death. It's never, ever worth it. This is reckless, selfish and dangerous behaviour.
“There is no appropriate time for taking illegal substances and there is no way to guarantee how long it may take for drugs or excess alcohol to leave your system.
“This is why our officers will be out on the roads, day and night, across the county looking for signs of impairment and stopping motorists at checkpoints doing alcohol and drug screening tests.
“Our message is simple: say no to drink or drug-driving so everyone can stay safe and get home this Christmas.
‘’We also ask that if you know anyone who drink or drug drives, do the right thing and report it. You may save a life or prevent someone from injury. Friends don’t let friends put themselves in danger.”
Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire, said: "Driving under the influence of drink or drugs is completely unacceptable. Anyone who chooses to endanger the lives of others on our roads should expect to face the full force of the law.
"Targeted enforcement operations like this are vital for improving road safety and sending a clear message that getting behind the wheel under the influence of drink or drugs will not be tolerated.
“We know the devastation these reckless choices can cause. If you’re going on a night out, plan, nominate a sober driver, book a taxi, or use public transport. Don’t risk becoming the reason for a tragedy on our roads this Christmas.”
Anyone who suspects that someone is either about to, or is currently, driving under the influence should call 999.
Lancaster wills company donates thousands to help local community groups making a difference
Morecambe Bay Curriculum wins top award
Lancaster film director's latest action movie now showing in UK cinemas
Appeal after Jack Russell dog found collapsed in Lancaster
Lancaster food companies announced as finalists in new Taste Lancashire Producer Awards
New student apartments block opens in Lancaster
Former BBC reporter and ex-Heysham shipping chief launch popular maritime podcast
Lancaster children get life-saving advice at 'Crucial Crew' water safety event
Crews tackle house fire in Heysham
Police appeal after 20 motorbike thefts in 30 days in Lancaster and Morecambe area
Truck driver jailed for causing death of six-year-old Lancaster girl
Former Morecambe Football Club co-chairmen break silence after shock resignation from board
Royal Lancaster Infirmary ward closed to visitors due to norovirus outbreak
Morecambe Football Club stalwarts resign from board
Heysham coffee shop couple take over Morecambe craft ale bar
Morecambe seafront cafe reopens
Eighty new houses in Halton recommended for green light
More than 600 knives recovered in area including Lancaster district as part of police national crackdown
Extra urgent NHS dental appointments now available in Lancaster district
New wellness cafe opens in Lancaster city centre
