Highland motorists warned of zero tolerance approach
The Justice Secretary and Police Scotland have launched this year’s festive campaign to tackle drink- and drug-driving.
It is the first festive enforcement and awareness campaign to include the use of the new drug-drive laws which came into force last month.
Almost 100 people have provided positive roadside tests for drugs since the law came into force.
The campaign highlights the criminal and personal consequences of drivers being found guilty of driving a vehicle while under the influence alcohol or with drugs in their system.
Latest figures show three per cent of Highlands and Islands drivers for whom a breath test was requested were under the influence of alcohol.
Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “Driving a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is totally unacceptable and puts not only the driver, but passengers and other road users, at risk of serious injury or even death. As well as such devastating consequences, drivers caught drink or drug-driving also face significant criminal penalties which could result in them losing their licence or their liberty.
“The new drug-driving law and Scotland’s low driver-alcohol limit are focused on making our roads safer for everyone.”
Road Policing North Command Chief Inspector Simon Bradshaw said: “Drink or drug driving is not acceptable at any time of year and my officers across the Highlands and Islands will continue to focus their attention on these offences. Working alongside local officers we will be carrying out increased patrols and roadside checks.
“In October we launched the drug testing kits and we are now even better prepared to tackle drug drivers, it has been disappointing to see a number of individuals have chosen to drive while under the influence of drugs and failed the roadside drug test.
“We have a zero tolerance approach to drink-driving and our message is clear if you plan to drink, leave the car at home.
"Please consider what you have planned the next day, if you need to use the car consider if you could still be over the limit.
"If you are caught drink- or drug-driving you will face criminal action and risk losing your licence, employment and your vehicle can be seized.”