Essex Police’s Christmas anti-drink driving campaign

Essex Police’s Christmas anti-drink driving campaign has already seen 22 people arrested and over £5,000 in fines issued, and the Christmas festive period has only just begun.

Members of Essex Police have stopped and breathalysed 2,072 drivers since December 1st 2013; of these, 64 were over the legal limit for alcohol.

The police are keeping a close eye on pubs and restaurants in and around towns with the aim of catching drivers before they can cause an accident.

Drink driving is a criminal offence and punishment includes losing your driving licence or a fine of up to £5,000. If drink driving results in injury or death, there is a maximum prison term of 14 years.

The Essex Police casualty reduction manager, Adam Pipe, is advising everybody to plan well in advance of a night out. You should know how you are going to get home and pre-book a taxi to avoid the need to use a car.

He also advises that people in groups designate a driver and ensure that this person only has soft drinks.

Losing your licence can have serious consequences; in addition to a loss of mobility, it can result in losing your job and subsequently struggling to pay bills and rent.

Ann Scott, regional manager for Crimestoppers, wishes to see more people inform the police about drink drivers. She said: “If someone has information about a regular drink driver, they may feel uncomfortable about going to the police. We do not ask for the caller’s name or any personal details. We do not trace or record our calls, and those giving information do not have to give a statement to the police or go to court. Nobody will know you called.” Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111.