Shropshire Star

Police urge public to shop Shropshire drink and drug drivers

Motorists across the region are being urged to report suspected drink or drug drivers as West Mercia Police launches its annual campaign.

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The force hopes the crackdown over Christmas and New Year will raise awareness of new drug-driving laws and prevent accidents across Shropshire.

Officers say it is vital motorists understand the dangers of drink and drug driving, especially as even prescription medication can put a driver over the drug-drive limit.

In Shrewsbury, officers will visit licensed premises in the town to hand out leaflets and posters to show the consequences of driving under the influence of drink or drugs.

Today, the force urged anyone who suspected a driver of being over the limit to call police.

A force spokesman said: "West Mercia is keen to point out that the use of drugs does not just apply to illegal substances. It can also include prescribed medication. Even if they are used in the prescribed manner, there are legal limits.

"If in doubt, seek advice from a medical practitioner prior to driving. Police will be working alongside both their sister organisations, ambulance and fire, in the hope of educating and persuading motorists not to drink or drug drive.

"The consequences of doing so can not only be financially dire to those caught, it can also be very tragic, leaving families with loved ones that are injured or killed as a result of an accident caused by a drink or drug driver, to suffer for months or years after, due to either their recovery from injury or even loss of loved ones.

"Those that are caught face severe penalties including long driving bans, heavy fines and greatly increased insurance premiums when you get your licence back.

"Local Policing teams throughout Shrewsbury will be visiting licensed premises to distribute leaflets and posters highlighting the consequences of driving a motor vehicle whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

"Police officers including our road policing teams will also be out and about in Shropshire to stop and interact with the public, and where necessary administer the tests. This is to ensure our roads remain safe over the festive period for the law abiding public."

Officers have said those who want to have a drink over the festive period should avoid using their vehicles and said they will catch anyone who tries to flout the law.

If you suspect a drink or drug driver, report them to West Mercia Police on 101 or 999. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org

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