Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf and Police Scotland launched this year’s festive campaign, which started yesterday, and they had a strong message.
And they underlined that this will be the first year of enforcement since the new drug-drive laws which came into force in October.
The Christmas campaign highlights the criminal and personal consequences of being found guilty of driving a vehicle while under the influence alcohol or with drugs in your system.
Latest figures show 2.2 per cent of drivers in Dumfries and Galloway for whom a breath test was requested were under the influence of alcohol, according to the Transport Scotland Reported Road Casualties Scotland 2018.
Humza Yousaf said: “Driving a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is totally unacceptable and puts not only the driver, but passengers and other road users, at risk of serious injury or even death. As well as such devastating consequences, drivers caught drink or drug-driving also face significant criminal penalties which could result in them losing their licence or their liberty.
“The new drug-driving law and Scotland’s low driver-alcohol limit are focused on making our roads safer for everyone.”
Road Policing West Command Chief Inspector Darren Faulds said: “As we move into the festive party season, I want to remind motorists of the devastating consequences driving with alcohol or drugs in their system can have on their and others lives.
“New roadside testing for drugs was introduced on October 21 and disappointingly we have seen nearly 100 people provide positive tests in the first four weeks.
“Our Festive Drink Drug-Driving Campaign starts on 1 December and we will have dedicated resources on patrol, targeting motorists at all times of the day who choose to take the risk of taking drugs and driving or drinking and driving.
“I am urging people in Dumfries and Galloway to think if you have to drive what could the consequences be to your life if you do it under the influence of drink or drugs. Always remember and think about how you’re going to get home safely and don’t forget about the impact alcohol can still have the morning after.”
