Officers from the Roads Policing Unit targeted those they suspected of being impaired by alcohol or drugs behind the wheel throughout December 2022 as part of Op Limit, the annual national drink and drug-drive campaign.
Among those arrested, 136 were charged with drunk driving, 91 with drug driving, and 22 with failing to provide a specimen.
‘Driving after just one drink can double the chances of having a collision, and getting behind the wheel at twice the legal limit makes drivers 30 times more likely to cause a collision,’ said Chief Inspector Craig West, Head of Roads Policing.
The Christmas and New Year period has historically been a time when these types of offences increase, which is why it is critical that we continue to run these types of campaigns not just during the winter months, but all year round.
No matter what day it is, do not drive at all if you have consumed any amount of alcohol, no matter how small, or if you are impaired by prescription or illegal drugs.
‘We are committed to changing bad driving habits on our roads in order to protect everyone who uses them.’