Public urged not to drink and drive

As the winter drink drive operation continues police in Newry are warning all road users, drivers and passengers that just one drink can kill. During the high profile safety drive to save lives, police officers in the local area will run targeted operations throughout the day and night, in the weeks leading up to Christmas and into the New Year, to catch drink drivers.

Inspector David Hutchinson of the Neighbourhood Policing Team explained to Newry Times, “Last year drivers and motorcyclists who had consumed alcohol or drugs, caused a number of deaths and serious injuries. These are particularly traumatic and painful deaths, and some of the injuries received were life changing. I want all motorists to think about the consequences for themselves and their families if they are involved in a serious collision. How would you feel if your actions resulted in you or one of your family being paralysed? How would you feel if an innocent person was killed?”

He continued, “It is also vitally important for passengers to ensure their designated driver hasn’t been drinking, and that people resist the temptation to overload vehicles. Words alone cannot describe the sights and sounds of the serious road traffic collisions which police officers and our colleagues in the emergency services attend. All it takes is one wrong decision, one moment’s inattention or one drink to instantly change your life forever.”

He added, “Drink and drive and at best, you are likely to be caught, arrested and brought before the courts. You will almost certainly lose your licence for one or more years, will be fined, and will have great difficulty in obtaining car insurance in the future. You also risk losing your job or going to jail. Remember that just one drink will impair your driving. It’s your choice and your responsibility. Leave the car at home – organise your night out in good time and this must involve transport home. We want you to get home safe and sound this Christmas and New Year. No matter what time of the year it is – never, ever drink and drive.”

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Posted by Newry Times News on Dec 13 2011. Filed under Community. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry