Police festive crackdown on drink and drug-driving well under way

Police forces across the country have begun their annual month-long festive crackdown on drink and drug driving.

Operation Limit is co-ordinated by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) to target those who choose to drive under the influence.

Each participating force will use a range of different tactics including vehicle stops and roadside testing as well as undertaking education and engagement events.

In Hampshire & Isle of Wight, officers will be increasing patrols and enforcement activity – including conducting early morning patrols to target those still impaired the following morning after drinking.

Officers will also be conducting roadside tests on motorists leaving Southampton Airport, in a bid to stop people drink driving when they may still be over the limit after consuming alcohol on their holiday or even on their flights home.

It’s a similar story in Greater Manchester, where officers will be carrying out roadside breathalyser and drug wipe tests throughout the campaign.

Last year during the same period, 570 people were arrested, demonstrating the force’s determination to tackle impaired driving and keep our roads safe.

Meanwhile in Surrey, alongside increased enforcement, Surrey RoadSafe is running a digital campaign.

The campaign creative centres around the fictional concept “Road Risk Roulette”, fronted by the character “Gambling Tommy” (played by Tommy Sandhu). The character appears at moments when the risk of drink or drug driving is “on the cards”, using the idea of gambling to highlight that impaired driving is a dangerous, life-changing risk.

The campaign will be delivered through a mobile-first video, designed to quickly capture attention and deliver a strong, clear message: Don’t Gamble with Drink or Drug Driving.