Would You Snitch on a Christmas Drink Driver?
Chief Constable Jo Shiner, the UK’s top road safety cop, is putting the nation on notice this festive season. She’s asking the big question: Would you report a drink driver this Christmas?
Her new hard-hitting campaign urges the public to “help prevent, persuade and call the police” on anyone who takes to the roads under the influence this winter.
Most Brits Say Yes — But Few Actually Will
- 81% of Brits say drink drivers should be reported to police — 88% in Sussex and Surrey agree.
- Yet, less than half would actually call the cops if they caught someone drink driving.
- Just 36% of men and 46% of women say they’d snatch a drink driver’s keys.
- Only 2% say they wouldn’t try to stop a friend from drinking and driving altogether.
These shocking stats come as police launch ‘Drink Driving – Together We Can Stop It’, a nationwide campaign to save lives.
Op Limit Cracks Down with Extra Police on Roads
Running alongside ‘Drink Driving – Together We Can Stop It’ is Operation Limit. Police forces across England and Wales are stepping up patrols, especially during the World Cup and Christmas build-up. Their mission? Hunt down drink and drug drivers before tragedy strikes.
Just how dangerous is this? In 2020, there were an estimated 6,480 crashes involving a driver over the drink-drive limit — resulting in death or serious injury.
Sussex Police Urge Festive Planning and Tough Love
Sussex Police warn: pack a plan before you party. Name your designated driver, book a taxi, or walk. Most importantly, step in if a mate tries to take the keys.
If chatting doesn’t cut it, phone police. Last year alone, Sussex and Surrey cops made more than 2,000 drink and drug drive arrests.
“Everybody knows that drink and drug-driving can have serious consequences but too many drivers still either don’t care or don’t think they’ll get caught.” — Katy Bourne, Crime Commissioner
“Drink drivers should be aware of the consequences. You could face a minimum 12-month driving ban, an unlimited fine and even a prison sentence. You might lose your job or have a criminal record.” — Chief Constable Jo Shiner
“Most important of all, you could kill or seriously injure yourself or someone else… I know from personal experience the heartbreak of losing a loved one on the road, I lost my father when I was a teenager.”
Jo Shiner hopes public and police teamwork will mean fewer families mourning this Christmas.
Remember: Sussex Police want everyone to prevent, persuade, and if all else fails, report drink driving during the festive season. Stay safe and watch each other’s backs.
