South Yorkshire Police has today launched its summer drink driving enforcement campaign. The month-long campaign will highlight the dangers of drink and drug driving and the consequences of ignoring police advice.

The South Yorkshire Police enforcement forms part of the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) drive across England, Wales and Northern Ireland and the European-wide TISPOL initiative.

Latest figures show that in 2009*, 380 people (17% of all road fatalities) were killed and 1,480 seriously injured in drink drive collisions across Great Britain.

Throughout the month, South Yorkshire Police will be enforcing breath testing under current legislation. This includes suspecting a moving traffic offence, following a collision or suspecting that a driver may be driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In addition, road traffic officers will be inviting members of the public to voluntarily take a breath test as a way of educating drivers and reinforcing the message, don’t drink and drive.

Inspector Pete Serhatlic said:

“Last June, 4,862 drivers were breathalysed in South Yorkshire. Of these, 5.7 per cent tested positive, or refused or failed to provide a breath test. We plan to speak to a similar number of drivers again this time.

 “Our high profile enforcement will take place at a range of locations throughout the day, not just at pub closing times. Our efforts will focus oneducating road users on the dangers of drink driving and we want to deter those who may be tempted, whilst reassuring the vast majority or law abiding road users.

“Our message to drivers is that if you are going out with friends and know you will be drinking, organise alternative transport or a designated driver to ensure everyone is able to get home safely.

“If you know someone that regularly drives whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol please contact South Yorkshire Police on 0114 220 2020 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111”.