Commissioner backs hard-hitting campaign to stop ‘selfish’ drink-driving and drug-driving in festive season

Following a successful first week of Essex Police activity to catch drink and drug drivers during the festive season, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst has added support to ongoing efforts to reduce road deaths and improve safety.

The PFCC, along with Essex Police, is a partner in the Safer Essex Roads Partnership, which as part of its festive campaign, has produced a video urging people ‘Don’t bet on Drink Driving’.

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner said: “Selfish and utterly unacceptable – that's the only way to describe driving while under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.

“Every December, we see an increase in drink-driving and drug-driving related incidents across Essex. A collision that is a direct result of drink-driving or drug-driving could mean innocent people die, devastating families, friends and communities. We want that to stop.

“In a recent PFCC survey, 61% of county residents who responded said their top rescue priority was to improve road safety and reduce road death in Essex to zero.

“The weight of public opinion is against drink-drivers and drug-drivers. When you get caught you will get no support. Thanks to support from the court service, you will be in court as soon as possible and media can report on court proceedings. Think about that.

“If you witness dangerous driving behaviour or suspect someone is about to drink-drive or drug-drive, speak up. You can use Essex Police’s Live Chat on your mobile phone, you’ll be messaging directly with a digital 101 operator, you can use it wherever you are. You will be saving lives.”

The first week of Essex Police’s latest road safety campaign targeting drink and drug driving has resulted in a notable number of arrests, demonstrating the force’s commitment to keeping local roads safe. For more visit: Essex road safety campaign makes significant impact in first week | Essex Police

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