Gloucestershire Constabulary supports summer anti-drink and drug driving campaign

Gloucestershire Constabulary is joining police forces in supporting a national campaign targeting the "Fatal Four" causes of collisions where people are killed or seriously injured.

Operation Spotlight focuses on those who drive under the influence of drink or drugs, use a mobile phone while behind the wheel, drive at inappropriate speed and don't wear a seatbelt.

Statistically July sees the highest number of people killed or seriously injured on the UK road network and Operation Spotlight is a targeted operation to make the country's roads safer for all.

With the Euros continuing, the campaign also has an emphasis on ensuring people are enjoying matches while being aware of the penalties that could be faced if found to be driving after drinking alcohol or consuming drugs.

Motorists can expect to see more roadside police checks in both urban and rural areas across the county. Enforcement action will also see the Special Constabulary conducting a number of proactive operations and Roads Policing officers making targeted patrols.

The multi-partnership campaign in Gloucestershire is co-ordinated by Gloucestershire Constabulary, Gloucestershire County Council, Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner as part of the Road Safety Partnership.

It aims to educate drivers of the dangers and penalties they could face by getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol and/or drugs.

Drivers who combine alcohol and drugs are 23 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than sober drivers with motorists being asked to consider if they are mate enough to let a friend drink drive? Research shows that a lot of drink drivers have the 'it won’t happen to me’ mentality when choosing to drink or drug drive.

With summer catch ups and get togethers fast approaching motorists are reminded to plan ahead and think about how they will get home, be it appointing a designated driver, booking a taxi or using public transport. Do not take the risk – it could cost lives.

Inspector Martyn Murawa from the Roads Policing Unit said: "We want to do everything we can to ensure the roads of Gloucestershire are as safe as possible.

"Our campaign will see an increased presence on the county’s roads with officers conducting roadside checks focusing on the "Fatal Four" causes of road deaths.

"We hope that the residents of Gloucestershire take their responsibilities as a road user seriously this summer as sadly we do see an increase in fatal and serious injury collisions over the summer months.

"Everyone has their own part to play in making our roads safer, choosing to make good decisions and encouraging family and friends to do the same."

Gloucestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Chris Nelson said, "While most people’s attitudes to driving under the influence of drink and drugs have changed for the better, the statistics are proof that we still need campaigns like this in order to remind those who put their own selfish and irresponsible attitudes first that adopting a zero approach to alcohol won’t ruin your summer, but it might save a life.

"And when you share the experiences of those who have killed someone, or lost a loved-one in this way, you realise what a terrible and senseless waste it is.

"Hopefully, more roadside checks will act as both a reminder and a deterrent, to those who stubbornly refuse to change their behaviour."

Cllr. Dave Norman, Chair of the Gloucestershire Road Safety Partnership said: "Drink and drug driving isn’t acceptable at any time of year, but we’re working together to remind you again this summertime.

"Plan your journeys home in advance, enjoy your summer safely, stick to the rules to avoid any unpleasant consequences. Let’s work together to keep our roads safe.”