Summer crackdown on drink and drug drivers

Police are set to launch a summer crackdown on drink and drug-drivers in Surrey and Sussex.

While officers routinely respond to reports of drink and drug-driving 365 days a year, patrols will be increased across the counties from the 29th June until the 13th July.

The two-week campaign aims to educate motorists about the dangers of driving under the influence, and to target offenders who pose a risk to themselves and other road users.


The two week crackdown aims to educate motorists about the dangers of drink and drug driving Credit: ITV Meridian

The campaign also coincides with the National Police Chiefs' Council's seatbelt operation, aimed to raise awareness of the potentially devastating consequences of not belting up in a vehicle.

Last year in Sussex, a total of 289 crashes involving a drink-driver resulted in one or more persons being injured. Of these, four were fatal.

Last year in Sussex, a total of 289 crashes involving a drink-driver resulted in one or more persons being injured Credit: ITV Meridian

Anyone caught and convicted as part of the summer 2020 crackdown will be identified on the Sussex Police news website and social media pages.

The consequences of drink or drug-driving could include the following:

  • A minimum 12 month ban;

  • An unlimited fine;

  • A possible prison sentence;

  • A criminal record, which could affect your current and future employment;

  • An increase in your car insurance;

  • Trouble travelling to countries such as the USA;

  • You could also kill or seriously injure yourself or someone else.

The drink and drug-driving campaign is being run in conjunction with partners including Sussex Safer Roads Partnership and DriveSmart in Surrey.

If you know someone is driving while over the limit or after taking drugs, call 999.