Over 10,000 Breath Tests Issued In Drink & Drug Driving Clampdown

Over 10,000 motorists in North Wales have been breathalysed this month as part of an ongoing crackdown on drink and drug driving.

Since December 1st the Force have carried out 10,835 breath tests across the region with 45 of those being positive equating to 0.4%. Four have also been arrested for drug-driving. The figures are correct from 1/12/14 until 21/12.

Led by Dyfed-Powys Police, the All Wales Campaign will run until 1st January 2015.

Chief Inspector Darren Wareing from the Force’ Roads Policing Unit said: “We announced at the start of the Christmas Anti-Drink and Drug Driving Campaign that we would be out and about targeting drink drivers/riders.

“Many people do not realise they can still be over the limit the morning after a drinking session. We would urge people to think twice before getting behind the wheel the morning after and consider making alternative arrangements to get to work.

“Despite the warning that we would be out and about 45 motorists have been arrested in North Wales following a roadside breath test. If convicted, each could face disqualification from driving for at least 12 months, face a heavy fine and many could lose their jobs. Drink drivers are a danger to themselves, their passengers and other road users. The campaign will continue, please heed the warning.”

So far the highest reading recorded in the North Wales area is 152mg. The legal limit is 35 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.

As a result a 55-year-old man from the Bethesda area was charged and has been bailed to appear before Caernarfon Magistrates on January 26.

Chief Inspector Wareing added: “There is an easy way to make sure that the holiday period is a safe and happy one for all concerned; enjoy yourself, celebrate, enjoy the company of family and friends, but if you drink – do not drive. It’s not worth the risk.

“Officers are on heightened alert all year round but especially at this time of year – they will spot you, they will catch you and you will face the consequences. Drivers need to be aware that regardless of the time of day they are caught, whether they are going to work or taking children to school, they will face the same penalties as someone who has chosen to drink heavily in a pub and driven at night.”

A statement on the North Wales Police website notes: “If you suspect someone is driving while unfit to do so, please report it immediately to North Wales Police via 101 (or 999 if they are posing imminent danger) or phone it through anonymously to Crimestopers on 0800 555 111.”