A CAMPAIGN to crack down on drug and drink-driving has been launched – with numerous motorists cautioned on the opening days.
The latest pictures show police carrying out checks on the A23 after people were already caught in Brighton, Polegate and Hailsham.
According to police, drink and drug-driving are the most common causes of fatal crashes on the roads in Sussex.
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Despite this, hundreds of drivers across the county are arrested each month for these offences.
Chief Constable Jo Shiner said the most common excuses include those who believe they are fit to drive the morning after a night out and motorists who are only travelling a short distance.
On December 1, Operation Dragonfly was launched in an attempt to crack down on the offences.
The campaign, which will see additional officers dedicated to carrying out roadside checks, will run until January 1.
Chief Constable Shiner, who is the National Police Chiefs' Council lead for roads policing, said Christmas time is always a priority period for police.
“Driving under the influence of drink, drugs, or both, is entirely unacceptable,” she said. “It puts not only the driver’s safety at risk, but also those within the vehicle and the safety of every other road user or pedestrian the driver comes across on the journey.
“Do not let your selfish choices be the reason that another family loses a loved one this Christmas.”
The first successful stop came at 7am on Wednesday when a driver in Polegate failed a roadside drug test.
A motorist in Hailsham was taken into custody on Thursday morning for drug-driving, while a driver in Brighton was arrested after failing a test for cocaine.
Sussex Police said the individual in Brighton failed to provide evidential specimens and was charged.
Other drivers have been cautioned in Heathfield and Brighton.
Chief Inspector Michael Hodder, of the Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said: “Drink and drug-driving really does destroy lives and is something we see far too much on Surrey and Sussex roads.
“Most people are safe and conscientious motorists, but despite knowing the risks, there is still a small number of people who are not only willing to risk their own lives but also the lives of others.
“Shockingly, more than 4,400 motorists have been arrested on suspicion of drink or drug-driving in Sussex since the beginning of 2020.
“It is worrying that some in society still see this crime as acceptable and we encourage you to have a designated driver, utilise taxis and public transport where you can, and enjoy your Christmas celebrations without the fear of killing a friend, a stranger or yourself through drink or drug-driving.”
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne added: “After nine years in this role, I’m still astonished and dismayed at the number of motorists who put their lives and other people’s at risk by drink or drug-driving.
“It shouldn’t be necessary to point out how dangerous it is to get behind the wheel of a ton or more of fast moving metal that you can’t properly control but people do every day, and they are often tempted to because of the increased frequency of festive social occasions.
“Even if you don’t end up injuring anybody you will end up with a fine, a ban or a prison sentence and criminal record.”
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