Fears voiced of possible spike in drink driving on Christmas Day - The Solihull Observer

Fears voiced of possible spike in drink driving on Christmas Day

Solihull Editorial 23rd Dec, 2020   0

THERE are fears that drink driving will spike on Christmas day as people travel home after visiting family and friends.

It’s led to Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Waheed Saleem to warn people against having a festive drink on the 25th if they have to get back behind the wheel.

The government has decided to lift Covid restrictions on Christmas day for people in the West Midlands, allowing mixing with two other households.

It’s likely to mean more traffic than usual on the roads and Mr Saleem is concerned some drivers may be tempted to drink as festive reunions get underway.




And he warned West Midlands Police won’t be taking the day off but will be out in force and running roadside alcohol and drug tests to enforce the law.

Police drink drive messages will also be posted on motorway signs in the run up to Christmas, warning people of the dangers of taking unnecessary risks with alcohol.


Hundreds of drink and drug tests have already been carried out on the region’s roads since December 1.

He said: “This Christmas is set to be one like no other.

“With government restrictions lifted on December 25 for Tier 3 households and below I’m worried some people will travel between homes and take the risk of driving after having a drink.

“I’d like to remind people that drink driving is a serious offence and causes dozens of deaths in our country every year. Those risks don’t diminish just because it’s December 25.

“If you want to drink please ensure you aren’t driving and putting others at risk.”

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