Police in Derbyshire are appealing to drivers across the county to "make the right choice" by avoiding alcohol and drugs if they plan on driving home.

As part of a safer summer driving campaign, Derbyshire Constabulary is warning that even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can impair a driver's judgement, reduce reaction times and affect vision. 

Roads Policing Officer Sergeant Scott Riley said: “It’s not just your own life that you are risking when you drive whilst under the influence of drink or drugs, you’re also responsible for the safety of other road users.

“Sadly, we often see incidents where one person’s decision to drink and drive has a devastating impact on the lives of other people.

“This is why we always advise that if you’re planning on driving, you should avoid alcoholic drinks and eliminate the risk completely.”

Proactive policing focussing on drink and drug driving will be carried out by Derbyshire Constabulary's Roads Policing Unit, in partnership with Derbyshire Fire and Rescue and the Police and Crime Commissioner Angelique Foster.

The Commissioner said: “There are still too many people who die or who are seriously injured on our roads every year and each incident has a tragic impact on the family and friends of those involved.

“Every driver must be made aware of their responsibility when getting behind the wheel of any vehicle.

She continued: “This campaign run by partners and the proactive work from our Roads Policing Unit is vital in helping save lives and taking drunk drivers off our streets.”

The penalty for drink or drug driving is an automatic driving ban for at least one year, an unlimited fine, up to six months in prison, and a criminal record. This conviction will remain on your driving licence for 11 years.

The penalty for causing death by dangerous driving under the influence, currently stands at a prison sentence of up to 14 years.

For advice and support if you’re concerned about your drinking, or the drinking habits of a friend or family member, visit drinkaware.co.uk.

If you witness someone drink driving, and the crime is taking place, you should call 999.

To report a non-emergency incident of drink driving, you can contact police via any of the below methods:

• Facebook – send a private message to our Facebook page.
• Twitter – direct message the contact centre via @DerPolContact
• Website – use the online contact form at https://www.derbyshire.police.uk/
• Phone – call 101

You can also report anonymously to Crimestoppers through their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

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