A crackdown on drink and drug driving has begun this summer across Preston and Lancashire.
Checkpoints are being set up by Lancashire Police who say ‘nowhere is safe when it comes to driving under the influence’.
A checkpoint in Preston set up during Friday (1 August) morning saw 19 drivers pulled over during a 45-minute period.
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A 26-year-old man from Preston was arrested on suspicion of drug driving and is currently in custody.
The first checkpoint took place in Blackpool Road, Ribbleton, close to Waverley Park.
Chief Inspector John Jennings-Wharton of Lancashire Police’s Specialist Operations Department said: “Regardless of how confident you might feel about your ability to drive under the influence, you are risking serious harm or death, and it’s never, ever worth it. This is reckless, selfish and dangerous behaviour.
“I was a Family Liaison Officer for many years and I have knocked on too many doors than I care to recall.
“Everyone on our roads has a responsibility to keep themselves and others safe, and we have zero tolerance for those who choose to drive impaired – these actions can have catastrophic consequences.
“My officers will be out on the roads, day and night, across the county looking for signs of impairment and stopping motorists at checkpoints whilst conducting alcohol and drug screening tests where necessary.
“There is no safe time or place to try to get away with this behaviour. You will be stopped and if you provide a positive test then you will be prosecuted.”
Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire said: “Warmer weather and lighter evenings are no excuse for risking lives through drink or drug driving. It’s a reckless, selfish decision that too often ends in tragedy. I fully support Lancashire Constabulary’s proactive efforts to target offenders and make our roads safer.
“The message to drink and drug drivers is clear – get help or get caught. Officers are vigilant across the road network, ready to stop anyone endangering themselves and others.
“I remain committed to working closely with the Constabulary to help educate drivers and back targeted operations like this to bring offenders to justice and protect the public.”
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