Drivers in London are being reminded of the dangers of drink driving over the festive season, with Police urging drivers to leave their car keys at home if they are going out for a drink.
The reminder comes as the Met Police launches its annual Christmas crackdown on drunk and drug driving which this year will see Traffic Unit officers carrying out a series of dedicated patrols and operations including “increased” levels of breath testing and Field Impairment Tests (FITs), which are designed to test for drugs.
The force has issued the following advice:
• If drinking, make alternative arrangements to get home that does not involve driving.
• Take a licensed taxi, black cabs or minicabs.
• Appoint a designated driver for the evening that will be drinking soft drinks only.
• Take care when driving the morning after you have been drinking as alcohol may still be in your system and you may be over the limit. Likewise, be careful about drinking at lunchtime.
and is warning drivers that anyone caught driving under the influence of drink or drugs will be arrested and risk the loss of their licence or a custodial sentence.
Chief Supt David Snelling from the Mets Traffic Unit said: “When planning a drink around Christmas just make sure you consider and arrange transport to get you home.
“Appoint a driver who won’t be drinking alcohol or pre-arrange a taxi, or, if you’re travelling by train make sure there’s someone at home that hasn’t been drinking that can pick you up. With temptation out of the way you are free to enjoy the evening without the worry of driving home.”
The force is also calling on Londoners to report persistent drink drivers which it says can be done anonymously via met.police.uk/roadsafelondon
