An SNP MSP and former cop has highlighted the dangers of drink-driving as Scots wind down for Christmas.
Audrey Nicoll served within the police drive for 30 years earlier than she was elected as MSP for Aberdeen South and North Kincardine. Earlier this month Police Scotland launched a marketing campaign to warn of the risks of consuming alcohol and medicines earlier than getting behind the wheel.
It comes following the drive's 2021 marketing campaign the place 600 drivers have been detected for drink or drug-driving offences. Ms Nicoll, who additionally convenes Holyrood’s Justice Committee, stated: “Whereas the festive season is a time for us to come back along with family and friends, our enjoyment can't come on the expense of the protection of us and people round us.
“Police Scotland will likely be seen this festive season, enterprise routine checks to make sure that Scotland’s roads are protected. Driving underneath the affect can have tragic penalties and the festive season is once we see a spike in collisions associated to drug or alcohol consumption.
“The most secure and finest recommendation for the general public is to keep away from alcohol utterly should you plan to drive, or plan your journey upfront should you do get pleasure from some festive spirit.”
Launching the marketing campaign, which runs from December 1 to January 2, Chief Superintendent Louise Blakelock, head of street policing, stated: “As all of us sit up for celebrating this festive season with family and friends, we're urging motorists to assist hold the roads protected for everybody.
“We proceed to see the minority of motorists put themselves and others at appreciable threat by driving after consuming alcohol or medication, regardless of repeated warnings in regards to the risks. All year long and significantly in the course of the festive season, our officers will likely be targeted on concentrating on those that put themselves and others in danger by driving after consuming drink or medication.
“Driving underneath the affect reduces your potential to react to what's occurring on the street and sadly continues to be a think about deadly and critical damage collisions.”
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