Drink driving figures still a concern

MORE than 200 people were arrested for driving under the influence of drink and drugs over the festive period despite a high-profile campaign from police.

Just under eight per cent of the 2,409 drivers breathalysed in the region during December tested positive or refused to give a sample, only a fraction lower than during the same period in 2009 and 2010.

A total of four per cent of drivers tested positive for drink or drugs following crashes which was also slightly down on previous years but the Safer Roads Partnership which released the figures said the trends were still concerning.

Most of the motorists who tested positive for drugs or alcohol followed nights out over the weekend and half of those arrested lived in areas with good public transport and taxi options.

The figures also showed four out of ten people who tested positive were under the age of 25.

The campaign which ran throughout December saw a series of online blogs and videos of five everyday characters who unwittingly take a risk designed to make people think about the consequences of drink or drug driving. There were also posters in pubs and clubs and television and radio adverts.

But Vicki Bristow, communications manager at the Safer Roads Partnership in West Mercia, said the message was still not getting across to some people.

"There are still a significant number of motorists ignoring the simple message that drinking or taking drugs and driving ruins lives," she said.

"It is worrying that 203 people were arrested for driving under the influence of drink or drugs and that motorists think they can risk having a drink if they are driving, especially in areas where there are so many other options available.

"Our simple message to them is it’s not worth it - driving after drinking or taking drugs will continue to be a focus over this year to ensure West Mercia roads become safer for all."