'There really is no excuse' for drink driving: Police superintendent in festive period warning to motorists

The county's police force has issued a warning to motorists ahead of the festive period and is taking part in 'Operation Limit' throughout December as part of its commitment to reducing the harm caused on the region's roads, as set out in the Police and Crime Commissioner’s West Mercia Safer Communities Plan.

Police say the month-long national operation will target motorists who "still think it’s acceptable to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs".

Officers reported that across the force area (Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire) over the last three years, there have been 25 fatalities and 167 serious injuries on the roads where alcohol has been a contributory factor.

Moreover, the force said there have been an additional 11 fatalities and 68 serious injuries that have occurred involving drugs.

A warning to motorists stated that any amount of alcohol can affect a person's ability to drive, and if caught over the limit, motorists could face six months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine and a ban from driving for at least a year (three years if convicted twice in 10 years). 

The force added that "beyond these penalties, those choosing to drive under the influence jeopardise the safety of all road users".

'Operation Limit' is being supported by Shropshire water brand Wenlock Spring and its 'The Only One for the Road' campaign that is encouraging drivers not to risk an alcoholic drink if they are driving and highlighting the fact that non-alcoholic options are available.

West Mercia Police Superintendent Stuart Bill said: "It's extremely frustrating that some motorists still drive under the influence of alcohol. With the variety of non-alcoholic options now available there really is no excuse. 

"There is no foolproof way of calculating how much you can drink and remain under the limit, or knowing how much an individual person can drink and still drive safely. Any amount of alcohol can affect your ability to drive and there are numerous consequences of driving with alcohol in your system. 

"Enforcement already takes place across the whole of our area in order to detect those who are willing to take the risk and to protect other road users and we hope that more people over the Christmas period choose a suitable alternative to alcohol if they are driving."

West Mercia's Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion added: "Anyone who makes a conscious decision to get into a vehicle after having a drink or taking drugs is putting not only their own life at risk but innocent road users too. 

"This unacceptable behaviour is part of the sad fact that many of the deaths and serious injuries happening on our roads are preventable. It’s therefore right that West Mercia Police carries out year-round enforcement across Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire to identify offenders and bring them to justice. 

"As set out in my Safer Communities Plan, I will continue to back the force with the resources it needs to carry out effective and proactive activity to ensure harm is reduced - a top priority for communities in West Mercia."