Sussex Cracks Down on Drunk and Drugged Driving After Fatal Crash
Sussex Police made a massive haul this December, arresting 233 motorists suspected of drink or drug driving following 52 road collisions. The crackdown came after a tragic fatal crash involving an intoxicated driver who was also hospitalized.
Operation Limit Targets Drunk Drivers Over Christmas
The arrests coincided with Operation Limit, a nationwide police blitz across England and Wales during the festive season. Sussex launched its “Drink Driving: Together We Can Stop It” campaign to get the message out: don’t drink or drug drive.
Chief Constable Jo Shiner, lead for Roads Policing at the National Police Chiefs’ Association, warned:
“Tragically, we have once again seen the devastating consequences that drink-driving can have on our roads. One person died in a collision involving a suspected drink-driver. More than 50 collisions show just how dangerous intoxicated driving is. Every one of those drivers put themselves and others at risk.”
Public Urged to Act – Don’t Let Drink-Drivers Get Behind the Wheel
The police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne added:
“It’s good news to hear Sussex Police continue to take dangerous drivers off our roads, but it’s saddening that so many still think this reckless behaviour is acceptable.
The campaign urges the public to:
- Book a taxi if you’ve been drinking
- Convince friends or family over the limit not to drive
- Take car keys away from drink or drugged drivers
- Report offenders to the police
Already, 86 drivers have been charged and will face court by the end of January. Sussex Police plan to publish the names of those convicted to boost awareness and deter repeat offences.
Harsh Penalties and Risks of Drink and Drug Driving
The consequences of getting caught behind the wheel under the influence are severe:
- Minimum 12-month driving ban
- Unlimited fines
- Possible prison sentence
- Criminal record impacting jobs and travel
- Increased insurance premiums
- Risk of killing or seriously injuring yourself or others
Drinking and driving remains one of the deadly “fatal five” causes of serious road injuries in the UK, alongside speeding, not wearing seatbelts, distractions, and careless driving.
Chief Constable Shiner urged:
“Drink-driving can be avoided by simple steps: pre-book a taxi, walk, or have a designated driver. The public can help too—call a cab for someone, offer them a place to stay, take their keys, or report them if needed.”
Sussex Police promise round-the-clock patrols to keep dangerous drivers off the roads. The message is clear — don’t risk it this year or any year.
