Drink Driving ‘on the rise’ in Dumfries and Galloway

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Statistics show ‘year on year’ rise in people arrested for drink driving

Police concerned with the number of arrests in early 2013

“How many warnings do these drivers need?”

That was the question posed by Inspector Neil Hewitson today after figures for the number of arrests for drink driving in Dumfries and Galloway show an alarming increase. Figures for the first two months of this year show an increase of more than 50% compared with two years ago where arrests are up from 21 in 2011 to this years high of 32.

Drink Driving Adverts have helped to raise awareness but more can still be done

Although major inroads have been made with the public’s attitude towards drink driving this increase highlights a worrying trend. The police have vowed to take swift and immediate action on any drivers who are suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drink driving is a serious offence, and the courts treat it as such: If you are caught you can expect a ban, a heavy fine, increased insurance premiums and in some cases be ordered to re-sit your test. If you are a repeat offender, or are over twice the limit, you will also be kept in police custody.

As discussed in this blog recently, the drink driving limit is due to be lowered later this year: when 70% of drink drivers are from ‘the morning after’ it is important that you take the necessary precautions. Stop and think, if you are unsure then do not take the risk. If you have been stopped for ‘driving under the influence’ it is important that you seek legal advice. Contact Graham Walker via the enquiry form at www.roadtrafficlaw.com, or call 0800 612 9597 for a free and confidential case consultation with a member of the Road Traffic Law team.