Emergency services in Manchester have launched their drink driving and drug driving enforcement campaign, in support of the NPCC’s enforcement campaign, set to run throughout the Christmas and new year period.
Greater Manchester Police, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) and the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) will all be taking part in the campaign: “Drink or Drug Driving – Never A Good Mix” to educate the public on the dangers and consequences of driving while under the influence.
Alongside their day-to-day operational activity, they will be enforcing the message that any amount of drugs or alcohol can impact someone’s ability to drive, as well trying to encourage passengers to consider how safe the driver is to get behind the wheel before they get in the vehicle.
The three services are reminding people to think before they get in their car with the intention of driving if they’ve had a drink or have drugs in their system. A collision can have catastrophic and long-lasting consequences both for themselves and others – their friends, family, other road users and their loved ones, too. An accident can also mean the time and resources of all three of the emergency services in a situation that can easily be avoided.
Last year’s operation saw 261 arrests for drink driving and 111 for drug driving, while this year will see increased patrols of dedicated roads policing officers in hotspots as well as roadside checks.
Those caught drink or drug driving while over the limit face a large fine and a driving ban.
Chief Inspector Matt Bailey-Smith of GMP’s Safer Transport Team, said: “Drink or drug driving can have fatal consequences. More than 200 people die every year, in a drink-drive related crash.
“The restrictions in place due to the global pandemic will alter the way many celebrate during this festive season, with work parties and social gatherings affected, however, this is still an important message and one that could save lives.
“More people may choose to consume alcohol in the comfort of their own homes, but it is important to remember if getting in the car to drive to work the next day or out to the shops, that you may still be over the limit.
“Christmas may be different this year, however, our position on drink/drug driving remains the same – it is never a good mix and we will take action against those caught driving under the influence.
“Our message goes to drivers and potential passengers. Think before you get in the car – are you or the person driving safe to do so? Your decision can have a lasting impact on more than just your life. Involvement in a collision could kill or seriously injure you, a loved one or an innocent passer-by. It can also take the resource of all three emergency services – the police, fire service and ambulance, for an incident that could have been preventable.”
GMFRS’ Head of Prevention, Area Manager Paul Duggan, said: “Our firefighters are called to hundreds of road traffic collisions every year and all too often witness people suffering preventable life-changing injuries, or losing loved ones. We now deal with more collisions than we do house fires and continually work with our partners and charities to raise awareness of the dangers that come with using the roads in a bid to keep people safe.
“We urge you to please think about yourself and others – including the emergency services – before getting into a car after having a few drinks, or with someone else who has. Consequences of dangerous driving can last a lifetime and destroy the futures of many people.”
Daniel Smith, Head of Service for Greater Manchester, said: “Whilst we encourage everyone to enjoy their Christmas, especially after the year we’ve all had, we would please ask that they do so responsibly.
“The thing about driving under the influence of drink or drugs is that it’s so avoidable: people make the choice to get behind the wheel of a car. Unfortunately, these split-second decisions can have life-long consequences.
“As a paramedic, the jobs that stick with you the most is when a family suffers life-changing injuries or a fatality as the result of a reckless driver who’s been drinking or taking drugs.”
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.
