POLICE have launched their summer drink and drug drive campaign with an increase in patrols and roadside checks.

This year's campaign by Dorset Police will run until Tuesday June 30. Every driver involved in a collision throughout June will be breath tested irrespective of whether they are suspected of drink driving.

A new law introduced in March means it is easier for police to catch and convict drug drivers. The law covers 16 legal and illegal drugs including cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy and ketamine. The limits for all illegal drugs are extremely low, meaning taking a small amount could put drivers over the limit.

The test is a simple wipe which is carried by officers on the roadside or at a police station.

Inspector Matt Butler of Dorset Police's traffic unit, said: "This summer will be the first campaign with new drug-testing kits in place to detect cannabis and cocaine as well as standard kits for alcohol testing.

"This means we are better equipped than ever to detect those who risk taking drugs or drinking and getting behind the wheel.

"We all look forward to the summer months but there is simply no excuse to getting behind the wheel or on your bike when you have been drinking or taking drugs. Our officers will be out there targeting those people suspected of being under the influence."

If someone is caught drink driving they will face a minimum 12-month driving ban, a criminal record, up to six months in prison and a fine of up to £5,000.

Anyone charged with a drink or drug driving-related offence during the campaign will have their name and court appearance details released to the media.

“Combining illegal drugs with alcohol is especially deadly with research finding that drivers who have consumed both are 23 times more likely to be involved in a fatal collision than sober drivers" added Insp Butler.

“Too many people have lost their lives because of such reckless actions. It is just not worth the risk.”

The 2014 summer campaign in Dorset saw a total of 87 people aged between 18 and 67 charged with a drink or drug driving-related offence. Of these, 64 were men and 23 were women.

People should call the police on 101, or 999 immediately, if they suspect someone is drunk or drug driving. Calls can also be made to the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555111.