Don't take a chance this Christmas

Police are warning motorists of the risks of driving under the influence this festive season as figures reveal more than 700 suspected drink or drug drivers have been arrested so far this year.

Motorists are reminded that drink or drug driving could destroy lives as a month-long campaign runs this December.

Officers will be carrying out roadside checks across the county due to the serious consequences of drink driving.

A dedicated operation will also take place at Cambridge Services, on the A14, on Friday, 13 December, also targeting fatal five driving offences, vehicle roadworthiness and modern-day slavery.

A total of 726 suspected drink and drug drivers have been arrested in Cambridgeshire so far this year (Jan-Nov) compared to 781 arrests in 2023 and 812 in 2022.

So far this year there have been 38 crashes where someone was killed or seriously injured on the county's roads where alcohol or drugs were involved. This compares to 36 crashes in 2023.

In October, a lorry driver who put “thousands” of road users at risk while driving across three counties was jailed thanks to calls from concerned members of the public.

Gheorghe Hirtopeanu, 65, was stopped by officers following a pursuit of at least six miles after calls reporting a 44 tonne Scania lorry swerving across lanes on the A1M.

He was jailed for 14 months with His Honour Judge Grey telling him: “There were only two reasons why you didn’t kill or seriously injure someone – luck and the skill of police officers who were ultimately able to stop you.”

PC Nick Southern, the force’s casualty reduction officer, said: “Whether you stay at home or go out to celebrate this Christmas, please remember that alcohol takes time to leave your system, and you may still be over the drink drive limit the following morning.

“This includes people doing everyday activities such as driving to work, doing the school run, going to the shops or to see friends.

“Please do not gamble with your life and be aware of the danger you pose by getting behind the wheel while under the influence.

“Consider a designated driver system or make sure to book taxis in advance, so there is no temptation to drive home while potentially over the limit. Before you get behind the wheel please think – is it really worth the risk?

“I’d also like to remind people that they can help us make our roads safer by reporting others they suspect of driving while under the influence of drink or drugs.

“We have a dedicated hotline and all calls are taken in confidence. One call could save a life.”

Calls to the confidential hotline more than doubled last year, with 13 in December, compared to six in November. There was a total of 98 calls to the hotline in 2023. 

The hotline - 0800 032 0845 - is available 24/7. If someone is in immediate danger, always call 999.

Meanwhile, a total of 14 pubs and venues across the county have signed up to support the force’s campaign – and it's not too late for others to do the same.

As part of the campaign, police are promoting the “I’m DES” scheme, where participating venues give free or discounted draught soft drinks to designated drivers.

The initiative, led by the Vision Zero Road Safety Partnership, aims to reduce the number of road collisions caused by drink driving during the festive period.

To take part in the December scheme, people need to let staff in participating venues know they are the designated driver and, if asked, to show their car keys.

PC Southern added: “We’re pleased to see pubs and venues are still keen to support the “I’m DES” campaign this year.

“Some are offering free drinks, but this isn’t sustainable for everyone. We are so grateful with ongoing financial pressures that they are on board, and their support will go a long way in keeping drink drivers off our roads.

“We would encourage people to take advantage of the scheme and help us make the roads of Cambridgeshire safer for everyone. If venues still wish to sign up, they can email me at [email protected].

“Even a small amount of alcohol can affect your driving ability. If you’re drinking, even just one, we advise you to arrange another way of getting home.”

For more information about drink or drug driving, the law and the dangers it can cause, visit the force's dedicated web page.