A number of police forces across the UK have launched summer road safety campaigns in a bid to crackdown on drink and drug driving.
 
Implemented by Dorset, Sussex, Surrey and Gloucestershire police forces, the initiative will see an increased number of police patrols and roadside checks to catch drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The campaigns will run from 01 June – 30 July.
 
The campaigns have been introduced to coincide with the 2016 UEFA European Championships and summer events, with police focussing on drivers watching the football who may drink while watching the game, before getting behind the wheel.
 
Figures released in May revealed nearly 8,000 motorists were arrested for drug driving in England and Wales over the past year, following the introduction of new legislation increasing the powers of road safety officers.
 
Motorists convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can receive a minimum one-year driving ban, a criminal record, up to six months in prison and a fine.
 
David Robinson, serious injury solicitor at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “Many football fans may well relax with a drink while watching Euro 2016 and that coupled with summer barbeques and parties, may mean people think they can get away with drink or drug driving over the coming months, but the law won't have changed. 
 
“Increased road safety initiatives around seasonal events is welcome but dangerous driving is a risk all year round and a visible police presence is a major deterrent. Sadly extensive Tory cuts to police budgets over recent years, has seen forces cut their presence on the road meaning less detection of drivers who risk lives and break the law.”