Think before you drive message as drink/drug collision rates remain stubbornly high

None for the road: It takes at least one hour for a single unit of alcohol to work its way out of your body.

Motorists are being reminded about the dangers of drink/drug driving this Christmas as the latest figures show too many deaths and injuries on the region’s roads are linked to people over the limit.

Road Safety GB North East (RSGB NE) is joined by police and fire services from across the North East in urging people to ‘give the gift of a lift’ by being the designated driver or arranging a taxi home after a night out.

They said the only safe option was soft drinks when planning to get behind the wheel, as one drink can quickly become more, and that’s when poor choices are made.

During the past five years, more than 1,200 people have been injured in the region in collisions involving a driver who was found to be over the drink or drug limit. Sadly, 46 were killed, and 429 were seriously injured.

The latest figures showed that young people aged between 17 and 34 accounted for almost 50% of those involved in collisions, and injured or killed, where drink/drug driving had been a feature.

With Christmas around the corner, people are being advised to plan their transport early and to make the decision beforehand whether to drink or drive.

For those who do drink, they are urged to think about the morning after, too. It takes roughly one hour for one unit of alcohol to leave the body, meaning someone who has drank six pints of beer or six glasses of wine will require at least 12 hours before getting behind the wheel. It could be longer, depending on the person’s constitution, and if they have taken medication or not eaten.

RSGB NE Chair Peter Slater said:

“We know people want to enjoy the festive season, but we’re urging them to think before they drive. If you’re planning a night out, please leave your car keys at home. Don’t be tempted to have just one – it can easily lead to more. Either be the designated driver and stick to soft drinks or plan how you’re getting home beforehand. It’s a simple decision that could save your life or someone else’s.”

Acting Inspector Michael Hogg, of Durham Constabulary’s collision investigation unit, said: “Drink and drug driving ruins lives. We will not shy away from the harsh reality that people will die or be seriously injured on our roads this Christmas, just because a selfish driver got behind the wheel while under the influence.

“Please consider your transport options in advance and remember you can still be over the limit the following morning. Our message is simple, don’t risk it.”

Steve Thomas, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service’s Head of Prevention and Education, said: “Wishing everyone a safe and joyful Christmas – especially on our region’s roads. If you’re out celebrating, plan ahead: book a taxi, use public transport, or choose a designated driver. Please don’t drive under the influence of drink or drugs; it could cost lives and leave families devastated.”

Chief Inspector Zoe Kelsey, of Cleveland Police’s Matrix Team, said: “If you choose to drive under the influence, you are putting yourself and others in danger – and we will stop you. Anyone who drinks alcohol or takes drugs and drives can expect to be stopped, arrested, and prosecuted.

“Our message is simple: don’t drink or drug drive. Make the right choice and help everyone enjoy a safe and happy Christmas.”

 Lee Brown, Assistant Director of Prevention, Protection and Planning at Cleveland Fire Brigade, said:

“This Christmas, your choices behind the wheel could save a life, or take one. Across the Cleveland Fire Brigade area between 2019–2023, drink or drug driving killed more than 30 people and devastated families in our community. Don’t become part of that grim statistic. Choose a designated driver, plan your journey, and make sure every trip ends safely, because your life, and the lives of others, depend on it.”

Inspector Glen Robson, of Northumbria Police said: “A split decision to drive while under the influence of drink or drugs could ruin your own life – as well as the lives of countless others.

“Anyone who is willing to take that gamble should know that we will have increased patrol activity and officers on the roads, and we will catch up with you.”