Safety group urges World Cup sobriety for drivers

The South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership (SYSRP) is urging road users not to take drink or drugs when using vehicles.

Many pubs will be showing World Cup matches and campaigners don’t want people to get caught out when driving back home.

Road safety officers from SYSRP will have a presence at public locations in the county throughout the competition highlighting the potential consequences of drink and drug driving.

As well as warning people about the physical consequences of collisions, the team will also stress the lasting impact that drink and drug driving has, both on the lives of victims and their families, and on the drivers themselves.

Members of the public will also be able to see first-hand how their perception can be affected by trying on beer goggles which simulate the visual impairment which often accompanies alcohol or drug consumption.   

Joanne Wehrle, safer roads manager at SYSRP, said: “England are going to score plenty of goals over the next few weeks, but for us the most important goal is making sure everyone makes it home to see the next match.   

“Whether England make it all the way through or crash out in the group stages, our message remains the same: if you’ve had a drink or are under the influence of drugs, don’t drive.

“Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs remains one of the most common contributing factors to fatal road collisions. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect your reaction times, which could have devastating consequences for you, your family and friends. 

“Celebrations can quickly turn into commiserations if you are stopped by the police. You may be banned from driving, have points added on your licence, face an unlimited fine, or even imprisonment. This will mean increased insurance costs, potential job loss and even restrictions on travel to other countries such as the United States.” 

More information is available at sysrp.co.uk/drinkdriving.