Police made 20 arrests in the first three days of a summer crackdown on drink and drug-drivers.
The month-long campaign kicked off on Friday 11 June in conjunction with Euro 2020, and is being run in addition to our routine roads policing activity 365 days a year.
Through education, engagement and enforcement, our aim is to reduce the number of casualties and to deal robustly with offenders, who make up the minority of road users.
As part of the operation, officers from Sussex Police and the Sussex Safer Roads Partnership worked together to provide proactive patrols across the county over the weekend of Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 June.
In addition to the 20 people arrested for drink and drug-driving, police also recorded more than 600 offences including speeding, driving with no MOT, illegal number plates and not wearing a seatbelt.
This could not have been achieved without the help of our dedicated Community SpeedWatch volunteers, who give up their own time to help keep their communities safe.
Chief Inspector Michael Hodder, of the Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said: “It is deeply disappointing that some people still make the conscious decision to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These are selfish and mindless individuals, who thankfully make up the small minority of road users in Sussex, but who put the lives of themselves and others at risk.
“We urge everyone to take responsibility this summer and beyond; do not get behind the wheel if you’ve consumed drink or drugs, do not get into a vehicle with a driver you know to be under the influence, and report anyone you suspect may be drink or drug-driving. Together, we can save lives.”
The public can expect to see a heightened policing presence every weekend throughout the summer, as we strive to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on our roads.
The aim of this dedicated activity is to create an environment that is inhospitable to the dangerous or antisocial use of vehicles on the roads, thereby reducing road casualties, and the impact of noise and poor behaviour on local communities.
The consequences of drink or drug-driving could include the following:
- A minimum 12 month ban;
- An unlimited fine;
- A possible prison sentence;
- A criminal record, which could affect your current and future employment;
- An increase in your car insurance;
- Trouble travelling to countries such as the USA;
- You could also kill or seriously injure yourself or someone else.
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