Zero Tolerance Drink Drive Warning

Police officers around Europe are adopting a zero tolerance drink drive warning from this week.


The European Traffic Police Network (TISPOL) has issued a warning to drivers driving under the influence (drink and/or drugs) for the next week during the Christmas celebrations.


Chief superintendent Pasi Kemppainen, TISPOL’s executive said:

“A combination of education and rigorous enforcement has helped reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured as a result of collisions involving someone drink-driving or drug-driving. Drivers in all European countries can expect highly visible and widespread enforcement of alcohol and drug laws during the operation.” he added

“Around 35,000 people died in road collisions in Europe during 2009, and we know that drink-driving is one of the major causes. Those who choose to ignore all the warnings and drive after drinking or using drugs are taking an unacceptable risk and are putting the lives of others in danger. We intend doing everything possible to remove these people from the road, not only during the seven days of this operation but at any other time of the year, too.”

“Our advice is simple. If you have had a drink, do not drive. If you need to drive, then do not drink. If you have used recreational drugs, then do not drive. If you are taking medicine, whether prescribed or purchased over the counter, then read the notes of advice that go with it. If these tell you not to drive after taking the medicine, then do not drive. The advice is there for a reason, to keep you and others safe.”

“If you are in any doubt about medicines and driving, then our advice is to consult a healthcare professional before you get behind the wheel.”


A similar operation run in 2009, resulted in 970,877 drivers checked over Europe and a total of 16,499 driving offences relating to alcohol and 1,119 drug offences

Just a simple tip this Christmas if your planning on driving anywhere - Don’t drink.

14-Dec-2010
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