Police officers across more than 25 European countries, including the UK, today begin a seven-day crackdown on drink driving and drugged driving. The operation is co-ordinated by TISPOL, the European Traffic Police Network.
Chief Superintendent Pasi Kemppainen, chairman of TISPOL’s strategic alcohol and drugs working group, commented: “We know that driving while impaired by alcohol and/or drugs remains one of the ‘big three’ killers on Europe’s roads, along with speeding and non-wearing of seatbelts.
“Although police officers are looking for drink drivers and drugged drivers throughout the year, this high-profile week-long operation is meant to raise awareness of the dangers that go with driving with alcohol or drugs (both medicinal and illicit) in your system.
“We are increasingly focusing on drivers who have been taking drugs and who will fail to appreciate the increased risks they face, and the risks they pose to others. Many medicinal drugs can cause drowsiness and therefore impair driving, so it is vital that you, as a driver, should read the warnings on a medicine, or check with your healthcare professional, before taking any risks,” he said.
A similar operation in 2010 saw more than 420,000 drivers tested in 21 European countries. In all, 7,699 alcohol and 561 drug offences were detected.
This latest operation begins today (Monday 6 June) and continues until Sunday 12 June.
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Fleet News
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