Drivers told ‘one for the road’ is one too many

Motorists are being warned that there is a zero tolerance for drink driving as the festive period approaches.

The festive awareness campaign has put extra patrols on Scotland’s roads throughout December to tackle offenders, as well as highlighting the consequences of being found guilty of drink driving.

Last year, one in 30 drivers stopped during the festive season were over the legal limit, compared with one in 35 over the same period in the previous year.

Councillor Marie McGurk, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board, said: “It is important that drivers are aware of the risks drinking and driving can pose, especially during the festive period.

“Not only will you lose your license and receive a criminal record, you are putting your own and the lives of other road users at risk.

“It is imperative that you plan ahead to ensure the safety of the roads during the party season, including preparing how you will get home from your night out in advance and for any journeys the following day.

“One drink is too many when it comes to getting behind the wheel so don’t risk it.”

More than 20,000 drivers are stopped by the police every month and, in the eyes of the law, it doesn’t matter if you’re only slightly over the limit, you are still a drunk driver and a criminal – there is no grey area.

Scottish Government Justice Secretary, Michael Matheson, said: “Unfortunately there is a persistent minority of drivers who continue to ignore the law.

“This campaign reinforces that drink driving is unacceptable and, if you get caught, you will get a minimum 12 month driving ban, a criminal record for a lengthy period and a substantial fine.

“I welcome the action being taken by Road Safety Scotland and Police Scotland to tackle those who think it is okay to have a drink and drive their car.”

For more information, log onto www.dontriskit.info or visit the Road Safety Scotland on Facebook and Twitter.