Tayside Police Assistant Chief Constable Angela Wilson has branded drink- or drug- drivers caught by police since the start of December as ”14 potential killers.”
In a response to the first week’s figures of this year’s seasonal campaign, Ms Wilson says that means even more potential deaths and has urged members of the public to dial 999 to report people about to drive while under the influence.
Tayside Police launched their winter drink-driving campaign last week.
Ms Wilson said: ”Nine drivers have been caught drink- or drug-driving in the first week of the campaign, but 14 in total have been arrested since the start of December.
”Let’s not mince our words here that is 14 potential killers and even more potential deaths.”
She continued: ”A total of 122 drivers were caught speeding across Tayside last week 98 of them in built-up areas. Speed kills, particularly in weather extremes such as high winds and freezing rain and snow. Drivers must drop their speed and drive according to the conditions around them.
”A further 65 people were caught using a mobile phone while driving. They were lucky to be detected as they could have been involved in a collision.”
She added: ”This type of driver behaviour contributes to making our roads less safe. Such actions can and too often do lead to the death or serious injury of a friend or family member every year.
”I would ask members of the public again to please help us prevent such tragedies by reporting the risk takers.”
Police say if members of the public suspect someone is over the limit while driving, or is about to drive, then they should call them on 999, or if it is not an emergency, on 0300 111 2222. You can also pass information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.