EXTRA patrols and roadside checks are to be carried out by police across the Island this month as part of a Christmas campaign to help tackle drink-driving.
So far in 2023, 108 drivers have been reported for drink-driving.
Both States and honorary police officers will be taking part in the campaign, which is this year called “what’s your plan?”
In a statement, the States police said: “For those heading out to celebrate the festive period with a few drinks, making a simple plan for the evening could be the difference between spending Christmas with your loved ones or spending it in a police cell, or even worse, in hospital.
“Getting a bus or taxi to your destination or relying on a family member or a friend to pick you up is a far more sensible choice than risking driving when you know you’ll be drinking alcohol.
“Some may think they can get away with it – after all, ‘it’s only down the road’ or ‘I’ll go through the back lanes’, but that is never a safe or responsible decision.”
Roads policing lead, Inspector Callum O’Connor, added that drink driving can have “a devastating impact on lives”.
He said: “The festive period is the opportune time to get this message out.
“People will be out at Christmas parties, work events and enjoying this time celebrating with friends and family and need to be reminded of the consequences, should they choose to drink and drive.”
He continued: “Think how being caught drink-driving could affect your life: driving to work, childcare arrangements or the school run, socialising and family visits.
“The impact of losing your licence is enormous, not only would you face a heavy fine, but worse still, you could injure or kill yourself or someone else. It’s never ok to drink and drive, it’s just not worth the risk.
“It’s always a good idea to plan ahead when arranging your night out. Order a taxi, get a bus, arrange a lift with a friend or family member, but make sure you have a plan to get home safely.”
