Drink-driving figures for Perth and Kinross

Jan 1 2010 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

A TOP local police officer has urged to people of Perth and Kinross stay well clear of the car if they are having a drink over the festive period.

As the PA went to press, official figures covering the whole of Tayside revealed 28 drink-drivers and five drug-drivers have been arrested across the region since the crack-down began three weeks ago.

One man, a 23-year-old man from the Fair City who is a repeat offender and appeared at Perth Sherriff Court this week, was one of five people arrested in Perth and Kinross during the Christmas holiday week.

Inspector Grant Edward said: “Despite all the campaigns, there will still be over 200 people caught for drink-driving offences in Perth and Kinross this year.

“The figure for our area is no worse than any other part of Scotland, but it’s not something we’re particularly proud of.

“It doesn’t seem to be seasonal either – even though the temptations may be stronger at this time of year – as there are just as many people caught in August as December.

Message

“New, often younger, drivers seem to be getting the message.

“But I would stress to all age groups that losing your licence or your vehicle for a sake of a drink is simply not worth it,” he said.

Inspector Edward told the PA that the number of people caught driving whilst under the influence of drugs is becoming one of the local constabulary’s “main concerns”.

He said: “Drugs impair a person’s ability to drive in the same way that drink does – and being caught carries the same penalties.

“People taking prescription medicine often don’t realise it can affect their ability to drive.

“But it’s long-term, habitual, drug users that are our biggest concern.

“I would urge people simply not to do it because, if they do get behind the wheel after having a drink or taking drugs, they will be caught.

“New punishments and different limits are being introduced all the time.

“The consequences of falling foul of them can be severe,” he said.