Thousands more drivers to be
breathalysed this summer

The Association of Chief Police Officers today launched its summer anti-drink and drug driving campaign targeting under 25s and day time drinkers.
ACPO lead for roads policing, Chief Constable Suzette Davenport, said there was a problem with drivers under 25 and warned drivers against drinking at barbecues if they intend on driving.
A total of 156 people under the age of 25 were killed or seriously injured as a result of drink driving in 2010. In 2011 drivers aged between 20 and 24 failed more breath tests than any other age group.
Chief Constable Davenport said: “Every summer police across the country still have to deliver devastating news to families after someone has been killed through drink or drug driving.
“These deaths are avoidable if drivers simply make the decision not to drink and drive, or make alternative arrangements to get home from summer time events.
“It is appalling that in 2013 we still have to remind people not to drink and drive. To combat this we will be stopping and testing thousands more drivers throughout the month of June.”
In June 2012 more than 83,000 people were tested during the campaign. Nearly 5,000 of those failed* a breath test.
Police will also target those drinking or taking drugs during the day. In 2011, 730 drivers involved in a collision failed a breath test between the hours of 1pm and 6pm, which is more than double the amount of people who failed for the hour before or after midnight.
Chief Constable Davenport added: “There is a very simple solution to this – don’t drink and drive.
“Friends and family of drivers could also stop a loved one getting into a car drunk. Do not be afraid to stop someone at your barbecue getting into their car if they have been drinking and want to drive.
“People are killed through drink driving, but many more have to suffer with lifelong disabilities which change the lives of everyone around them.”
ACPO is also working with Government to introduce a roadside testing kit for drug drivers.
Chief Constable Davenport said: “It is essential we continue to tackle the menace of drug driving and work is ongoing with the Home Office to introduce a national road side drug testing kit in the future.”
The UK campaign takes place alongside similar initiatives across Europe, coordinated by TISPOL (the European Traffic Police Network).
TISPOL president Koen Ricour said: "It is of course tempting to enjoy a drink or two in good summer weather with friends and family. With good planning you can ensure you don't take any risks by driving afterwards. For example, plan to leave the car at home and take public transport or share taxis.”
Road Safety Minister Stephen Hammond MP said: “Drivers who get behind the wheel over the limit are a menace and anyone who does so this summer should be in no doubt that they risk losing their licence, as well as facing a fine and even a prison sentence. 
“To make it easier for the police to tackle the problem and protect law abiding road users, we are streamlining enforcement and tightening the law so that drink drivers will have nowhere to hide.”