Dorset drivers get the message!

More breath tests but fewer positive results show the drink drive message is getting through to drivers in Dorset – but the minority of motorists who still choose to get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol are being warned they will be caught.

The latest statistics, issued by Dorset Police relating to the summer drink and drug driving campaign between 1 June and 30 June 2009, reveal that for every ten drivers tested, there was approximately one arrest.  This has halved when compared to the statistics produced in the same period in 2008.

2008:    577 breath tests conducted - 118 drivers arrested
2009: 1,029 breath tests conducted - 106 drivers arrested 

Of those arrested, 50 per cent were aged 31 years and younger and 30 per cent of these were aged 25 years or younger.

Chief Inspector Bob Nichols, said: “It’s really encouraging that despite a big increase in tests conducted this summer, the number of positive breath tests actually fell compared to last year.

“However I am concerned by the large number of younger drivers giving positive breath tests. Research shows that young drivers are more likely to be involved in road traffic collisions in the first place and getting behind the wheel after having a drink puts them, and other road users, at serious risk.

“Despite the decrease in arrests, there are still 106 people in Dorset who – through the course of this campaign – have lost their driving licence and face a hefty fine.

“They may also experience other consequences – like losing their job or relationship. This shows that as well as risking death or serious injury there are many other consequences for drink drivers.”

During the campaign, police carried out breath tests on every driver involved in a collision – irrespective of whether they were suspected of drink driving or not. Statistics show that 10 per cent of all road traffic collisions in Dorset involved a drink driver.

Chief Inspector Nichols continued: “Just because the summer campaign has now finished, it doesn’t mean we are going to be complacent or let up on our commitment to reducing drink driving in Dorset. We are absolutely committed to making Dorset’s roads safer and won’t tolerate drink or drug driving at any time of the year.
“Our advice to drivers is not to get behind the wheel after drinking any alcohol at all, and if going out for a drink then plan ahead to make sure you can get home safely and without having to drive yourself.”

The public are also urged to continue to support Dorset Police by calling in if they suspect a vehicle is being driven by someone under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Chief Inspector Nichols said: “Drink drivers can cause death or serious injury on our roads and we want anyone who suspects that a vehicle is being driven by someone under the influence of alcohol or drugs to contact police immediately by dialling 999 – so that officers can intercept the vehicle.”

Members of the public can also call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 or the Dorset Police non-emergency number on 01202 or 01305 22 22 22.