Police issue stark drink-drive message to Mid Ulster’s road users

And the PSNI have issued the a stark reminder that they will not tolerate people who insist on driving, after having taken drugs or drink.

Appealing for all motorists to consider the consequences of their actions, they have said that men, aged 35 and under, in particular should think before getting behind the wheel, as research has shown that this group are more likely to drink and drive.

“Think about the consequences to yourself and your family of being involved in a serious collision,” said Chief Inspector Jane Humphries.

“How would you feel if your selfish actions resulted in you or one of your family being paralysed? How would you feel if some innocent person was killed?

“Drink and drive and at best, you are likely to be caught, arrested and brought before the courts.

You will almost certainly lose your licence for one or more years, will be fined, and will have great difficulty in obtaining car insurance in the future. You also risk losing your job or going to jail.

“We are appealing for everyone to stay safe on the roads. Everyone has the responsibility to wear a seatbelt, reduce their speed, take greater care and attention, and NEVER, EVER, DRINK AND DRIVE.

“If you find yourself asking the question, I wonder if I’m ok to drive? Or if you find yourself trying to calculate if you are under the drink drive limit, whether that’s after one drink, or the morning after a night out, just don’t take the risk.

“The consequences could be catastrophic.

“People don’t accidentally have a beer or glass of wine, they make a conscious decision. It only takes one drink to impair your decision making ability. The only right decision is to leave the car or motorbike at home if you’re drinking.

“I want all motorists to think about the consequences to yourself and your family of being involved in a serious collision. How would you feel if your actions resulted in you or one of your family being paralysed? How would you feel if some innocent person was killed?

“Most right thinking people know that drink driving is shameful and unacceptable however clearly there is still an irresponsible minority who ignore all the advice and warnings and put themselves and other road users at incredible risk.

“None of us want to see local police officers knocking on doors to tell families that a loved one has been killed or seriously injured in a collision at any time of the year, but especially over Christmas and the New Year.

“If everyone took responsibility for their actions on the road, did not drive after drinking or taking drugs, slowed down, wore a seatbelt and drove with greater care and attention then we could all look forward to a safe Christmas on our roads.”