An annual campaign to target drink and drug drivers begins today (1 December) in a bid to drive down fatal and serious road traffic collisions and protect other road users.

The campaign, co-ordinated by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), will run throughout the country and this county from Thursday 1 December 2011 to 1 January 2012 inclusive.

Enforcement and education are essential tools in reducing death and injury on our roads. Many people socialise after work, in the evening or at the weekend through the festive season. It is a time when a lot of people drink alcohol and take drugs.

Inspector Ian Hancock, Road Policing Team, said: “Officers will be carrying out roadside stop checks across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent on drivers during the campaign – both at night-time and the morning after."

“Anyone suspected of being over the limit will be breath-tested. All drivers involved in road traffic collisions which the police attend are also tested"

“If you’re going out for a drink with friends or family think of the consequences of drink driving and nominate a designated driver."

“Don’t forget that you could still be over the limit the next morning if you drink the night before."

“Last Christmas we stopped thousands of vehicles and breath-tested over 1,800 drivers – arresting 118 people."

“We are committed to reducing the number of fatal and serious road traffic collisions in Staffordshire.”

Driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs is both anti social and dangerous. It is against the law and the offences committed have both short and long term consequences: