Drink and Drug Drivers Targeted in Month-Long Operation Limit Campaign

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary has launched its annual winter crackdown on drink and drug driving, with Roads Policing officers beginning a month-long enforcement campaign aimed at reducing casualties during the festive season.

The initiative, known as Operation Limit, coincides with a period when many people are out celebrating and alcohol consumption typically increases. Throughout December, police will be carrying out increased patrols, roadside checks and early-morning operations to identify motorists who may still be impaired from drinking the night before.

Last year’s campaign resulted in 322 arrests, including 152 for suspected drink driving and 170 for suspected drug driving.

Chief Inspector Emma Hart, of the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit, said the consequences of driving while impaired are often devastating.
“Drink and drug driving kills and seriously injures people. The decision can be life-changing for you and the people around you and there is absolutely no excuse for it,” she said.
“You will face serious consequences if we catch you driving while impaired from drink or drugs. You could lose your licence, and not having a car in the modern world can also mean you lose your job as a result. We’re asking everyone to take responsibility and help us save lives. Don’t get behind the wheel if you’re not fit to drive.”

This year’s campaign also includes a new strand of activity called Operation Lift Off, targeting drivers leaving Southampton Airport. Officers will be carrying out roadside tests on arriving passengers who may still be over the limit after drinking during their holiday or even on their flight home.

Inspector Chris Sharland said holidaymakers often underestimate how long alcohol remains in the body.
“It’s not uncommon for holidaymakers to enjoy a drink in the airport or on their flight, but despite the excitement of your travels you still need to be careful before then driving home,” he said.
“Our officers will be conducting roadside checks, engaging with arriving passengers and, where appropriate, administering breathalyser tests to make sure everyone arriving at the airport gets home safely, without putting themselves or others at risk.
If you choose to drink alcohol on your flight home, please make sure you arrange for someone else to drive you home or just get a taxi, because it’s not worth the risk and we don’t want your holiday experience ruined.”

Police are urging the public to report suspected drink or drug drivers. Anyone witnessing such behaviour in progress should call 999, while non-emergency information can be shared via 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers.