Police launch annual festive campaign to stop drink and drug driving in the Highlands

Drivers in the Highlands have been warned not to get behind the wheel after consuming drink or drugs this festive season.

It comes as Police Scotland launch the annual seasonal campaign to keep road users safe.

Officers will be mounting increased efforts to detect and stop people who are under the influence from endangering themselves and others.

Police will be speaking to motorists as part of the campaign as well as carrying out enforcement activities as Christmas and New Year approaches.

The campaign aims to highlight the dangers of driving after consuming alcohol and drugs.

It adds to the education and enforcement work that Police Scotland do every day as part of a partnership response to reduce road casualties.

Last year, more than 600 drivers were detected for drink or drug driving offences during the winter campaign.

Chief superintendent Louise Blakelock, head of road policing, said: "As we all look forward to celebrating this festive season with friends and family, we are urging motorists to help us keep the roads safe for everyone.

"We continue to see the minority of motorists put themselves and others at considerable risk by driving after consuming alcohol or drugs, despite repeated warnings about the dangers.

"Throughout the year and particularly during the festive season, our officers will be focused on targeting those who put themselves and others at risk by driving after consuming drink or drugs.

"Driving under the influence reduces your ability to react to what is happening on the road and sadly continues to be a factor in fatal and serious injury collisions.

"As well as a breath test, officers can also test salvia for the presence of drugs at the roadside.

"Our message is for you to be safe on the roads and not drive after consuming alcohol or drugs, so we can all enjoy a safe festive season."

The campaign will run from December 1 until January 2.