Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, (Commissioner) David Allen, warns the public not to drink or drug drive this festive period.
Between 1 December 2024 and 2 January 2025, 54 people were arrested in Cumbria for driving under the influence of alcohol and 140 were arrested driving under the influence of drugs. That equates to almost six arrests per day.
Commissioner David Allen said: “This time of year, many of us will be out celebrating Christmas and New Year with friends and family.
“These celebrations will include an alcoholic drink for many of us. If you are drinking this festive season, make sure you have a designated driver or a safe way home. Do not get behind the wheel of car if you have had a drink. If you are caught, you will face the consequences.
“If you are caught driving under the influence of illegal drugs, the penalty could be even more severe.
“Illegal substances stay in your system for far longer than alcohol does, so even if you are pulled over days later and tested, it will show up on a roadside drugs test and you will potentially face prosecution.
“What’s worse, if driving whilst impaired, through drink or drugs, you could end up harming yourself, your friends, families and other road users. That’s something you and the victim and their family will have to live with for the rest of your life. No one wants this.
“Last Christmas, 194 arrests for these offences took place – far too many people are still too comfortable driving under the influence. Please do not think you can drive drunk or high safely – you can’t.
“I would urge everyone to enjoy the festivities but to drive safe, drive legally and do not drive drunk or under the influence of drugs.”
If you wish to report to police you can do so online at Report a crime | Cumbria Police. You can also phone on 101. Always phone 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.