Officers launch Op Limit

Enjoying a drink this weekend? Going to your Christmas party? Make sure you have a plan to get home.

Roads policing officers are once again taking part in a national campaign to target drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol over the Christmas season.

The campaign, known as Op Limit, was officially launched on Wednesday, December 4, with officers from Durham Constabulary’s Roads and Armed Policing Unit carrying out random vehicle stops in Durham City.

A total of 146 drivers took part with everyone thankfully passing.

However, alcohol was detected on breath samples of two drivers who, although under the limit, were given words of advice on the risks that any amount of alcohol can have on a person’s ability to drive safely.

All drivers also undertook an eyesight test by reading a number plate at 20m and all passed.

Support was provided by County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Brigade as well as the Durham Police Crime Commissioner’s office.

Strategic Roads Policing Insp Andy Howarth, said: “While we conduct these checks throughout the year, we know the festive season is a particular time of the year when we need to reinforce the message of the harm that driving under the influence of drink or drugs can do and as a result we continue to run this initiative across the county and proactively stop vehicles and educate drivers.

“Please consider your transport options after having a day or night out with friends, family, and work colleagues and remember you can also be over the limit the next morning.

“Drink and drug driving convictions can have a profound impact on yours and another’s life.

“Our message is simple, life is precious so enjoy the festive period but be responsible on our roads.”

Drivers risk up to six months in prison, an unlimited fine and a substantial driving ban if they are caught driving while above the legal limit.

Anyone who causes a death while drink or drug driving faces up to 14 years’ imprisonment.

The intelligence-led enforcement will continue throughout the festive season and teams will be out morning and night in a series of locations across the county to catch those who choose to put other’s lives at risk on the roads.

Don’t risk it.