A ground-breaking initiative has been launched in England, with a police force introducing cutting-edge technology designed to tackle drink-driving. Merseyside Police has become the first constabulary in the UK to roll out evidential roadside alcohol-testing equipment as part of efforts to identify and discourage drink-driving amongst holidaymakers returning home.
The technology forms part of Operation Take Off, a proactive campaign targeting post-holiday drink-driving. Evidential roadside alcohol testing enables officers to charge motorists at the scene for drink-driving offences.
Closing a gap in the process
Previously, an initial screening test would necessitate an evidential sample to be taken in custody, potentially several hours afterwards. Inspector Gavin Dixon from Merseyside Roads Policing said: “It might not sound like a major breakthrough, but being able to charge people at the roadside for drink-driving could make the difference between securing a prosecution and losing one.”
He continued: “If someone blows over the limit in a roadside breath test, we have traditionally needed to take them into custody and obtain an evidential sample before any charge can be brought. During that time, their body continues to process the alcohol.
“That means we can sometimes find ourselves in the frustrating position where a driver who was clearly over the limit at the roadside is no longer providing a sample high enough to meet the evidential threshold by the time they reach custody. Evidential roadside testing removes that risk entirely.”
An early adopter of new technology
Inspector Dixon added: “Merseyside Police has a strong history of being an early adopter of technology that helps prevent serious and fatal collisions. While this technology is available to forces across the country, we are proud to be the first to deploy it operationally.
“It is particularly meaningful to take this step as part of Operation Take Off. The tragic circumstances surrounding the deaths of Zackary and Karlene demonstrate exactly why this proactive approach is needed. Every improvement we can make in detecting and prosecuting those who drive under the influence is vital.
“If someone has been drinking before boarding their flight home, or while travelling, and believes that somehow they can get behind the wheel without consequence, they should think again. We now have the ability to remove them from the road immediately and begin the process of bringing them to justice.”
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
