Festive Season Operation Limit: Lancashire Police's Crackdown on Drink and Drug Driving

Lancashire Police is urging motorists not to drink or drug drive throughout the festive season, warning offenders they will face the full force of the law if they do, like any other time of year.

The warning comes as officers launch Operation Limit – a national campaign run throughout December, aimed at preventing drug and drink related casualties across the Christmas period.

The operation will involve extra road policing patrols across the county as well as the use of drink and drug check sites. It will also involve education with drink drive messaging on pub screens, petrol pumps and other key locations.

Last December, as part of Op Limit, Police conducted 307 drug wipes and 2,189 breath tests, and arrested and charged 314 people with either drink or drug driving. Sadly, each year the figure rises, particularly with regards to drug driving offences.

Men between the ages of 20-39 make up more than half of all drink and drug drivers, many of those still testing positive from drugs or alcohol consumed the night before.

Supt Dave Hannan, from Specialist Operations at Lancashire Police, said: “We carry out activity all year round to keep our roads safe, but we know that Christmas is a busy time on the road network and that with more parties and social events, people will potentially be indulging more. The wintry weather also brings extra risks.

"Everyone on our roads has a responsibility to keep themselves and others safe and we have zero tolerance for those who choose to drive impaired. Regardless of how confident you might feel about your ability to drive under the influence, you are risking serious harm or death, and it's never, ever worth it. This is reckless, selfish and dangerous behaviour."

He urged people to think about their actions and to make appropriate arrangements for travel.

He said: "There is no appropriate time for taking illegal substances and there is no sure method to guarantee how long it may take for drugs or excess alcohol to leave your system.

"This is why our officers will be out on the roads, day and night, across the county looking for signs of impairment and stopping motorists at checkpoints doing alcohol and drug screening tests.

"Our message is simple: say no to drink or drug-driving so everyone can stay safe and get home this Christmas. We also ask that if you know anyone who drink or drug drives, do the right thing and report it. You may save a life or prevent someone from injury. Friends don’t let friends put themselves in danger."

Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire, said:

"Driving under the influence of drink or drugs is completely unacceptable. Anyone who chooses to endanger the lives of others on our roads should expect to face the full force of the law.

"Targeted enforcement operations like this are vital for improving road safety and sending a clear message that getting behind the wheel under the influence of drink or drugs will not be tolerated.

"We know the devastation these reckless choices can cause. If you’re planning a night out, make arrangements in advance, nominate a sober driver, book a taxi, or use public transport. Don’t risk becoming the reason for a tragedy on our roads this Christmas."

Anyone who suspects that someone is either about to, or is currently, driving under the influence should call 999.  

For up-to-date Op Limit information and results throughout December, follow Lancashire Police across social media.