Worrying statistics prove that weekends are the most likely time for someone to be killed or injured by a drink-driver and that young men in particular are more likely to be involved in a related accident than any other age group.
Claire Beechey, 25, backed the launch by saying:
“I had been out shopping with my sister and we decided to watch some of the England World cup quarter final match and only intended to have the one drink – but before I knew it I had enough to feel quite drunk.
“I just got in my head that I could handle driving the short distance home. I had two hands tightly on the wheel and made sure I stuck to 30 mph. But then I hit a speed bump, sped up, lost control and crashed into a stationary car. The owner saw me and so I just sat there while he called the police. I couldn’t believe what I had done.
“The whole experience has been a real eye-opener and I know I’ll never do it again. I didn’t even realise that I would automatically lose my licence! I just hope I can help warn others not to do the same as it’s just not worth it. I feel so ashamed, particularly the impact it has had on my kids as I can’t drive them anywhere now. It has also greatly affected by job prospects as I wanted to start looking for a driving job!
“And going on a drink drive rehabilitation course, run by the TTC Group, was definitely worth it as it helps you realise a lot about yourself.”
Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly said:
"Drink drivers are a danger to themselves and others and there is no place for them on our roads.
"Today's launch tackles this head-on by moving away from traditional shock tactics specifically to engage young men more fully. It focuses on the shameful reality of being caught drink-driving and compellingly demonstrates how it will ruin your life, even if you are not involved in an accident as a result.”
In 2005 there were 899 East Midlands casualties from accidents where a driver/rider failed a breath test. 203 of these happened in Leicestershire.
Speaking at the regional launch, John Budulis, road safety officer for Leicestershire Constabulary, said:
“Ask yourself if that quick drink at lunch, the couple of pints in the beer garden after work or the wine at a barbecue is really worth the devastation that can result from drinking and driving.”
“The message to motorists this summer is don’t risk it! Officers will be actively looking for anyone they suspect to be over the limit and you don’t have to be involved in a collision to be tested for drink or drugs. If you don’t think you’ll get caught – you are wrong. Last June we carried out 781 tests with 83 positive - 11.9 per cent.”
Cllr Patrick Kitterick, Leicester City Council’s cabinet lead for transport told us:
“This is an important campaign to highlight the dangers of drink-driving. It is something people should consider all year round to ensure they drive safely”.
