Drink-drive picsA CAMPAIGN highlighting the financial cost to drivers getting behind the wheel after drinking has been launched in South Derbyshire as part of a nationwide spring crackdown.
Derbyshire Constabulary will be focusing on young drivers during the campaign which runs throughout March, with a particular focus over the Easter weekend.
Young men are consistently over-represented in drink-drive casualty figures and are more likely to admit to driving while above the legal limit.
It is part of the national THINK! campaign highlighting the consequences of a drink-drive conviction.
Chief Inspector Steve Wilson, head of roads policing, said: “Our campaign is very much intelligence-led which allows us to target those age groups who persistently drink and drive, rather than conducting mass-testing.
“Our message is simple – if you are having a drink, don’t drive. If you drink alcohol or take drugs before driving we will catch up with you and you will have to face the consequences. This will include a driving ban, a criminal record and potentially losing your job.
“I would urge anyone with information about a drink-driver to contact police and we will act on it wherever possible.
“We are determined to make Derbyshire’s roads safer and removing individuals who put theirs and other people’s lives at risk by drinking and driving.”
During the Christmas campaign in Derbyshire, which ran from December 1 to 31, almost 45 per cent of under-25s tested gave a positive test, or the driver refused to take the test or failed to provide a sample, compared to just 11 per cent of over-25s.
The Institute of Advanced Motorists has calculated the personal financial cost of drink-driving for the first time, pricing it between £20,000 and £50,000.
The calculation reflects the fines, legal costs, rise in insurance premiums and possible job losses faced by those who are convicted.
Last year, 280 people were killed and 1,290 were seriously injured in drink-driving related incidents across the country.
Anyone caught drink-driving faces a fine of up to £5,000, a minimum 12-month driving ban and a criminal record.
Anyone who would like to report a drink-driver can call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.
