The consequences of drink driving are highlighted in a campaign being launched today (Thursday 17 July) to coincide with the start of the school summer holidays.
 
The Road Safety Team at the Department of Infrastructure is urging motorists not to let a change in their daily routine result in a serious accident or a conviction in the courts.
 
The campaign theme ‘They’re not going on a summer holiday’ shows a drunk driver being stopped and breathalysed by police while taking his family to the beach.
 
Radio advertisements will be supported by posters, which are being distributed to various locations around the Island. Posters can also be downloaded from the Government website at http://www.gov.im/categories/travel,-traffic-and-motoring/road-safety/ to display on noticeboards at work or social venues.
 
The summer anti drink driving campaign is a key element of year-round efforts to maintain high levels of safety for all road users.
 
There are two drink drive hot-spots during the year – one around Christmas and New Year, the other in the summer months.
 
Police are always on the lookout for motorists driving under the influence of drink or drugs and the consequences can be serious.
 
Even if an offender is fortunate enough to avoid being involved in a collision, they are certain to face a driving ban and a financial penalty.
 
Statistics recorded during this year’s TT Festival period showed that the vast majority of drink drivers were Island residents.
 
Leonard Singer MHK, Member of the Department of Infrastructure with responsibility for road safety, said: ‘Drink driving wrecks lives and is never acceptable at any time of the year. The summer campaign aims to hammer home that message and remind people to act responsibly at all times.’
 
He added: ‘At this time of year, parents don’t have to get up early for the school run in the morning and there may be a temptation to socialise and drink more than usual. That is why we are timing this campaign to coincide with schools breaking up for the summer holidays. Also, at social gatherings such as barbeques the alcohol may be served up in larger measures than people are accustomed to. We are encouraging people not to let their guard down and not to get behind the wheel if they’ve had a drink.’