Police launch festive drink-drive campaign after 200 arrests last year

TRAFFIC officers will be testing motorists’ alcohol limits across the region during the festive season — after nearly 200 drivers were arrested last year.

The festive campaign was launched in All Saints’ Square yesterday (Thursday) with the simple message: drink and drug-driving kills.

Roads Traffic Inspector Jason Booth warned: “After a night out, you could still be over the legal limit the following day, which is just as dangerous.

“We are urging everyone this year to think, is it worth it? You can plan ahead, book a taxi, organise a lift, but please don’t get behind the wheel. 

“Twenty pounds for a taxi is nothing compared to the devastation you could cause by driving over the limit.”

Officers will carry out roadside breath tests, while South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership will tour its digital ad vans at events like football matches.

Partnership manager Joanne Wehrle said: “There is no safe limit for the amount of alcohol you can have before driving. Even the smallest amount can impair your judgement.

“As well as the risk of being involved in a collision, the consequences of drinking and driving include a ban, points on your licence, an unlimited fine or prison.

“And it’s not just on your night out, it’s the following morning as well as there is no way of knowing how long it will take for alcohol to be processed by your body.”