Hampshire Constabulary has embarked on this year’s summer drink drive campaign and is sending out a clear message to all drivers across the Isle of Wight and Hampshire that even one drink is too many.  

To coincide with the government’s national clampdown on drink driving, the force is carrying out extra high visibility patrols throughout Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to deter people from getting behind the wheel, while unfit through alcohol and drugs.  

Despite additional patrols being conducted throughout the summer months, the force acknowledges that drink driving is not just a seasonal problem, and carries out enforcement all year round.  

Drivers are reminded that you don’t have to be involved in a collision to be stopped at the roadside and breathalysed.  

If caught, a driver will receive a criminal conviction, minimum 12-month driving ban, and a stiff fine. The penalties are severe.  

Young men under 30-years-old are also more likely to be involved in a drink drive collision than drivers from any other age group.  

Roads Policing Unit Acting Superintendent, Roy Bayntun, said:

“It’s simple. Alcohol and driving just don’t mix. Why ruin your life by getting behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs? When you go out leave the car keys at home and catch a lift or get a taxi.  

“It isn’t about having one too many because when driving one is always too many, and the penalty of losing your licence and facing a criminal conviction may be compounded by the tragedy of killing or injuring a loved one or another driver. If you do, you may well face a long jail sentence. 

“We are particularly concerned about the risks posed by young drivers aged 17-24 who drink or use both prescription and non prescription drugs which may impair their ability to drive. These are often the most inexperienced group of drivers who are often the subject of peer pressure.

“Officers across the two counties will be paying particular attention to such groups at all times of the day, not just late at night.”  

Research by Road Casualties Great Britain 2005 shows that 55 per cent of all drink drive related casualties occur between Friday and Sunday and 42 per cent of drink drive casualties occur between traditional “pub closing time” between 10pm and 3am.