North Yorkshire Police have today launched a video as part of a Christmas drink and drug campaign targeting young male drivers.
This campaign is aimed at men aged 17–29, as national statistics show that 90% of fatal collisions involving drink or drugs since 2014 have involved men in this age group.
Research suggests this demographic is more likely to “engage in thrill-seeking, risk-taking, and overconfident behaviour,” officers say.
Video
The video shows two scenarios – one where a pubgoer drives after drinking, crashes and he and his passenger have to be cut free from a car, ending in intensive care.
In the second scenario, he catches a taxi home and ends in his own bed with a cup of tea in the morning.
As part of the campaign, the Roads Policing Group will increase patrols during peak times, such as evenings and mornings when drivers may still be over the limit.
Marked and unmarked vehicles, along with roadside checkpoints, will be deployed to test as many drivers as possible.
Roads policing lead for North Yorkshire Police, Inspector Clive Turner said: “As the festive season begins, we want to take this opportunity to remind everyone of the very real dangers of driving under the influence of drink or drugs.
“This is not just about breaking the law; it’s about preventing tragedy.
“I strongly encourage you to take a moment to watch the video we’ve produced.
“The message is clear: if you make the wrong choice and decide to drive after drinking alcohol, the consequences can be devastating, not only for you, but for your family, friends, and innocent road users.
“If you believe it won’t happen to you, you are mistaken. Every collision starts with someone thinking exactly that.
“And we know all too painfully what it feels like to knock on a door and tell someone their son, daughter, or loved one won’t be coming home for Christmas.
“Our advice is simple and uncompromising: avoid alcohol and drugs completely if you plan to drive. The only safe limit is none.”
If caught driving over the limit, you could face:
- Six months’ imprisonment
- An unlimited fine
- A driving ban of at least one year.
The national campaign runs until New Year’s Eve.
