West Midlands Police launch summer drink and drug-drive campaign
Motorists getting behind the wheel while under the influence of drink and drugs are being targeted in a summer crackdown by police.
Officers will be targeting the drivers, who the force say put their own and others' lives at risk, in the month-long operation.
Last Christmas a similar campaign saw more than 250 people fail roadside tests or refuse to give a sample.
A further 40 were positive for drugs which was a third of those tested.
The highest breath test recording was 167 micrograms in 100 millilitres of breath - more than four times the legal alcohol limit - and traffic officers are warning of the risks of basking in the warm weather with alcohol and then getting behind the wheel.
Roadside stop checks and unmarked patrols will be used by officers from the West Midlands Police and Central Motorway Police Group (CMPG). Officers will act on intelligence to catch irresponsible drivers.
Sergeant Mark Bull, from West Midlands road policing, said: "There are big risks involved with drink or drug driving, not only are you risking killing or injuring yourself or others you also risk losing your licence and potentially your livelihood.
"Such behaviour is totally unacceptable and drivers found to be driving in excess of the limit will be put before the court."
Also, as part of the campaign, a driving simulator will be based across the region throughout June.
It will allow people to see the effects of alcohol on driving.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said: "People driving under the influence of drink or drugs are a menace on our roads, causing harm and misery.
"I am hugely supportive of West Midlands Police’s efforts to reduce the number of fatalities and serious injuries caused by drink driving. Drinking alcohol then getting behind the wheel is the most dangerous thing a driver can do. It’s a reckless and selfish act.
"Making our roads safer has always been one of my top priorities, from my time as Transport Minister to my current position as PCC, and I’ve seen first-hand the devastation drink and drug driving can have. Any campaign that makes potential over-the-limit drivers think twice has my full support. I know the overwhelming majority of law-abiding motorists back it too.
"I fully support West Midlands Police’s summer drink and drug driving crackdown."
Anyone with information on a suspected drink or drug driver can call West Midlands Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
