Police reveal summer drink drive figures

Figures have been released for Devon and Cornwall Police’s summer drink driving campaign for 2015.

Police officers administered a total of 788 breath tests of which 163 were positive, refused or failed to provide, equating to 20%.

Last year the comparable figures were 776 breath tests with 132 positive, refused or failed to provide which equates to 17%.

Examples which stood out during the campaign included a 37 male driver who blew 143 at 8:50am on a Saturday morning and a 71 year old male who blew 120 at 9:20am on a Tuesday morning. The legal limit is 35.

Inspector Richard Pryce, said: “There has been a very slight increase in the number of positive, refused or failed to provide results this year. While we have undertaken a targeted campaign over the busy summer months drivers should be aware drink driving enforcement is something we do every day of the year.”

“Few people understand the full consequences of being caught drink or drug driving.

"Many drivers are aware their judgment will be impaired but some still have utter disregard for the lives of others and dismiss the potentially lethal outcome. The increased likelihood of involvement in a collision means a high risk of death or serious injury.

"Those convicted of drink driving can expect to be banned for at least 12 months, receive a fine of up to £5,000 and/or six months in prison. Collisions resulting in a fatality, where the driver is under the influence of alcohol, can carry a penalty of up to ten years in prison.”