CHRISTMAS party-goers have been warned that they could be responsible for the loss of someone’s life if they drink and drive over the festive period.

It is the time of year when many people will be drinking more than usual and

The annual anti drink and drug driving campaign was launched this month by Dorset Police.

Officers of the Alliance Roads Policing and No Excuse teams will request breath tests from all drivers involved in collisions. Drivers can expect to be tested if stopped for an offence.

Drugwipe sample kits will be used at the roadside on drivers suspected of being unfit to drive through drugs, which will provide an instant result.

PCC Martyn Underhill has said: “Quite simply, getting behind the wheel while impaired by drink or drugs ruins lives and there is no excuse for it.

“I wish we didn’t have to keep saying it every year, but unbelievably there are still people out there whose behaviour means this message needs to be repeated.

“The parts of your brain that make you able to drive simply stop working properly when you’re under the influence of even small amounts of drugs or alcohol.

“Reaction times are slower, spatial awareness is reduced and the chances you will crash and seriously injure yourself or someone else are massively increased.

“If you’re caught, and there’s a good chance you will be, you could face getting banned from driving for at least a year.

“Losing your licence means you could lose your job, house, family and friends. You could also get an unlimited fine and a prison sentence.

“But far worse than this, you could be responsible for the loss of someone’s life.

“Four people died on Dorset’s roads last year because of drink drivers. Four people who won’t be sitting down with their loved ones this year.

“The only way to be sure you’ll be safe is to leave your car at home if you’re planning to have a drink.

“Please, stay safe on our roads this Christmas. Don’t drink and drive, don’t take drugs and drive. Get a cab home, get a lift home, stay at a friend’s, but whatever you do, please don’t take a chance and drive.”

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