Sussex Police has kicked off its tough, month-long Christmas campaign targeting drink and drug-drivers. This crackdown comes as collision data reveals a worrying spike in serious road incidents linked to alcohol and drugs.
Chief Constable Jo Shiner, also the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s lead on roads policing, gave a grim warning. She said:
“Every year, innocent people are killed or seriously injured by drivers high on drink or drugs. The devastation to families is unimaginable. No one should have to get that dreadful knock on the door telling them their loved one has died because of a reckless driver.”
Stunning Statistics Reveal Rising Danger
- 2024: 70 alcohol-related deaths/serious injuries, 48 drug-related
- 2023: 27 alcohol-related, 19 drug-related
- 2022: 46 alcohol-related, 8 drug-related
Drink and drug-driving arrests remained sky-high this year too, with 1,128 drink-driving arrests and 1,021 drug-driving arrests already made.
Shiner slammed the lazy excuses she hears every year:
“‘I was only around the corner’. ‘I felt fine to drive.’ ‘I didn’t think I’d get caught.’ No excuses. Risk being banned, fined, or jailed. For victims’ families, these crimes are a life sentence.”
New ‘Think Again’ Campaign Battles Drug-Driving Myths
This year’s campaign introduces fresh tactics aimed squarely at drug-driving myths — especially the false belief that drugs clear out of your system quickly. Many drivers don’t realise they can test positive for drugs days or even weeks later.
Last year’s Christmas crackdown netted 270 arrests for drink and drug-driving.
Sussex Police stress many motorists might still be over the limit the morning after a boozy night – making driving deadly dangerous.
Police and Crime Commissioner: “Don’t Risk It”
Katy Bourne, Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner, urged festive drivers to stay safe:
“Drink or take drugs then drive, and you’re gambling with lives – yours and others’. The consequences can be catastrophic. Operation Limit will have police out in force. If you drive under the influence, expect to be caught.”
Bourne also revealed the new Fatal Five Unit will tackle the most dangerous behaviours: speeding, mobile phone use, and impaired driving.
Offenders’ Names To Be Published For Public Awareness
Sussex Police will continue to publish the names of convicted drink and drug-drivers — a move to shame offenders and warn others away.
Serious Penalties Await Drink and Drug-Drivers
- Minimum 12-month ban
- Unlimited fines
- Possible prison time
- Criminal record that hits job prospects
- Sky-high insurance costs
- Travel bans, including to countries like the USA
- Risk of killing or seriously injuring yourself or others
See Something, Say Something
If you suspect someone is driving while drunk or drugged, call 999 immediately.
You can also report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their online reporting service.
Drive sober. Drive safe. This Christmas, don’t be the disaster on the road.
