Drink and drug campaign launched in West Lothian as those caught soar

A new campaign to combat drink and drug-driving has been launched in West Lothian as the number of offenders continues to rise. The joint initiative by the Scottish Government and Police Scotland kicked off in Livingston earlier this week. Last year saw a record number of drink and drug-driving incidents during the festive season, with 61 offenses reported in Lothian and Borders between December 1, 2023, and January 2, 2024.

Police Scotland has ramped up efforts to catch offenders, with officers now equipped to carry out instant roadside drug testing using a simple swab. Shockingly, almost half of the tests conducted have shown positive results for drugs. Statistics from 2022 reveal that drink-driving alone led to an estimated 30 fatalities and 280 injuries. Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs, Angela Constance, stressed the devastating consequences of driving under the influence, highlighting the risks not only to other road users but also to the drivers themselves.

Ms. Constance warned of the severe penalties offenders may face, including losing their license, job, facing hefty fines, and potential imprisonment. Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, Police Scotland’s Head of Road Policing, urged people to plan their transport arrangements before heading out for festive activities, emphasizing that alcohol or drugs can impair reactions and judgment, regardless of driving skills. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the lasting impacts of substance use on driving abilities, driving home the message that even one drink can push individuals over the legal limit.

Offenders caught driving under the influence may face a range of penalties, including a 12-month driving ban, fines of up to £5,000, penalty points, and up to six months in prison. Chief Superintendent Sloan highlighted the importance of public support in improving road safety, urging individuals to intervene if they know someone who intends to drive after consuming alcohol or drugs. The new advertising campaign underscores the ease of detection for drivers under the influence, the lingering effects of substances in the system, and the risks even after a single drink.

The initiative will run throughout the festive period across various media channels, accompanied by a PR and social media push. For more information, visit roadsafety.scot or follow Road Safety Scotland on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) (@roadsafetyscot). The aim of the campaign is to reduce drink and drug-driving incidents and safeguard road users during the holiday season and beyond.