Cleveland Fire Brigade, alongside local police, has launched a campaign urging drivers to avoid drink and drug driving during the Euro 2024 football tournament. The campaign, titled “None for the Road,” is aimed at preventing road accidents caused by impaired drivers. With a rise in alcohol consumption and social gatherings expected during the tournament, authorities are concerned about a potential increase in collisions.
Statistics from recent years show a troubling trend in drink and drug driving offences during major sporting events. In the North East alone, between 2019 and 2023, over 1,200 people were injured in road traffic collisions involving intoxicated drivers. Of these, 37 fatalities were recorded, and 381 people were seriously injured. These figures are a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that impaired driving can have.
Andrew Bright, road safety co-ordinator at Cleveland Fire Brigade, emphasised the importance of staying sober if driving. “Alcohol or drugs are not a happy mix when driving. The statistics speak for themselves—lives are lost, and families are shattered,” he said. Bright also highlighted the importance of planning ahead, whether by designating a sober driver, using public transport, or booking a taxi. The campaign also warns drivers to be cautious the morning after drinking, as alcohol can remain in the system longer than expected.
With roadside checks being increased throughout the Euro 2024 period, the message is clear: there is no safe amount of alcohol or drugs when it comes to driving. The brigade and other emergency services hope that through these efforts, fewer lives will be lost, and the roads will be safer for all users.
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.
