This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
Listen
Festive road safety campaign
08/12/2003
The Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland's launched a Festive Safety Campaign today.
The campaign, which focuses on motorists who drink drive or drug drive, will run until January 5, 2004.
Transport Minister Nicol Stephen said:
"The festive season is traditionally a time when people enjoy themselves. Unfortunately, too many drivers are still prepared to take the risk to drink and drive.
"No-one should be in any doubt that alcohol, even in small amounts, affects driving ability. One in five road deaths in 2001 across Scotland was the result of drink driving.
"I fully support the police's festive safety campaign that coincides with our publicity and advertising campaign to warn drivers of the consequences of drink driving that can last a lifetime.
"Drivers risk causing death or serious injury to themselves and innocent people. They also risk losing their licence, massive insurance premiums, losing their job and a possible prison sentence.
"The police will be looking out for people whose driving may be impaired through drink or drugs, but drivers should also be aware that the 'Crimestoppers' hotline means anyone can report a drink driver to the police.
"It only takes a little forethought to avoid the consequences of being caught drink driving. If you are having a big night out, leave the car at home or arrange for a non-drinker to drive. Drivers should also be aware they may still be over the limit the next day.
"I hope people will work with the police to make our roads safer this Christmas and New Year to ensure it is a time of celebration and not one of tragedy."
Radio and poster advertising, organised by the Scottish Road Safety Campaign (SRSC), will highlight the 'Crimestoppers' telephone number, which can be used by the public to report road crime, such as drink driving, speeding and drug driving to the police.
The telephone number is 0800 555 111.
The Scottish Road Safety Campaign message "Who's Watching You?", aims to reduce the incidence of drink driving with particular emphasis on the young male driver.
"Who's Watching You?" radio ads and washroom posters placed in male washrooms in bars, clubs and SPL football grounds are being used to get the message across.