Shop drink drivers in South Yorkshire to save lives

The latest figures available show that in 2012 there were 1,160 motorists convicted of drink driving in South Yorkshire and nationally there were 230 fatal collisions caused by motorists who were over the limit.

It us estimated that drug driving causes 200 deaths a year.

From Monday a month-long campaign will see police officers breathalysing anyone involved in a driving offence or collision on South Yorkshire roads.

Police chiefs are warning motorists that they could still be over the limit the morning after a night out.

South Yorkshire Chief Inspector for Roads Policing Glen Suttenwood said: “Christmas is a time for celebration, please play your part, if you’re going to enjoy a drink, then arrange a safe way to get home. If you are with a friend or family member who’s been drinking and plans to drive, stop it before it happens.

“Prevention is much better than the after effects, by making a stance that you won’t get in a car with a drink driver you’re being the real friend and you’re showing the true spirit of Christmas, caring for others.”

Inspector Pete Serhatlic, of South Yorkshire Police’s roads policing team, said: “I have seen the consequences of drink driving on far too many occasions.

“The said thing is that it is avoidable.”

“There are late night buses, more taxis than ever before and common sense - organising a designated driver or arranging to be picked up.

“Some people get behind the wheel after a drink and think they have coat of armour around them - they don’t.”