Mersey Tunnels Police target drink and drug drivers this Christmas

‘Op Limit’ nationwide campaign to target drink/drug drivers

Police checkpoints in Mersey Tunnels this winter to discourage drink and drug drivers

Driving the next morning under the influence can be just as dangerous

Mersey Tunnels Police are stepping up patrols to help keep people safe this Christmas.

They’re supporting ‘Op Limit’, a nationwide campaign, coordinated by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and National Roads Policing Operations and Intelligence (NRPOII) targeting people who drink and drug drive.

Throughout the festive season, and into the New Year, Mersey Tunnels Police Officers are taking extra measures to discourage people from driving under the influence, including static drink/drug drive checkpoints and increased patrols within the Mersey Tunnels.

This activity aligns to the Liverpool City Region Road Safety Strategy and Merseyside Road Safety Partnership (MRSP) – Vision Zero for no more deaths and serious injuries on our roads by 2040.

Councillor Liam Robinson, Portfolio Holder for Transport for the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, said:

“The safety and security of tunnel users and staff is paramount, so this is an important operation.

“If you drive under the influence of drink or drugs, not only are you jeopardising yourself, you’re putting other road users at risk. This behaviour is not tolerated on any of our roads including the Mersey Tunnels and this initiative is one important way of helping to prevent deaths or serious incidents.

“There is still a misunderstanding that drink and drug driving is a night-time problem, this is not always the case. Too often people don’t take enough time to recover from the effects of overindulgence and are back in their vehicle the next morning. We’re asking everyone to take care and think about the recovery time needed before getting behind the wheel. Checkpoints will be running at different times throughout the festive period with a view of educating people on ways to stay safe while driving around the City Region.”

Mersey Tunnels Police work within the Mersey Tunnels year-round, carrying out patrols and ensuring traffic flows safely and efficiently. They work closely with other teams within the Combined Authority teams and government authorities to share information and keep the Tunnels and approach roads safe.

For more information on how to identify someone who may be driving under the influence, please visit the Crimestoppers website.

To report someone, you believe may be drink or drug driving, please report them by:

1. Dialing 999 if you know someone is drunk or has taken drugs and you see them getting behind the wheel of a car

2. Calling Merseyside Police on 101 to give police information about someone who regularly chooses to drink and drive

3. Telling Crimestoppers anonymously about people who repeatedly drink and drive by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org You won’t have to give your name, no personal details are recorded and you won’t have to go to court.