Cumbria: Drink & drug driving campaign to save lives this summer

With the warm weather and more socialising outdoors, our charity and the Cumbria Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Mike Johnson, are encouraging people to speak up about drink and drug driving in Cumbria, to save lives.
 
 We have seen a worrying increase in drink and drug driving reports in Cumbria, with almost 500 over the last 12 months, with information passed to our charity rising during the summer months. 

Everyone has a part to play in keeping people and our roads safe and no one should get in a car when they know the driver has been drinking or is under the influence of drugs, and should stop that person from driving. Those who know individuals who regularly drink, or drug drive can report their concerns 100% anonymously to Crimestoppers. 

We are independent of the police and we give people an option of passing on what they know about crime whilst staying completely anonymous. That means when you contact us, we never ask for or store your personal contact details. Whilst we  work with the police by passing on vital crime information, we pride ourselves on our standalone charity status.  

Nationally, it is estimated that around 5% of fatalities on our roads are caused by drug drivers and the number of people getting banned has risen sharply over the last five years. Many of those who have taken illegal drugs have been unaware of how long the drugs remain in their system and how much their driving is impaired.

“It is particularly worrying to see parents who have been stopped under the influence on the afternoon school or sports run with children in the car or teenagers driving, having taken drugs, not only putting their own and friends lives at risk but also other road users.

“It’s important to remember that many of the victims of road traffic collisions are passengers in cars driven by those who are under the influence of drugs or over the alcohol limit, or are in cars that are hit by impaired drivers. 

“Information that Crimestoppers receives from local people can really make a difference. We know it can be difficult to speak up about crime, and even more awkward if it’s about a friend, neighbour, colleague or close associate. Being able to give information with no comeback is so worthwhile, as it helps the authorities tackle life-threatening behaviours, such as driving whilst under the influence of drugs. 

“We know of stories where someone has made the stupid decision to get behind the wheel whilst over the limit or on drugs, and then fatal consequences have been the result. Many of those drivers regret their behaviour, but by then it’s too late. The damage is done and they have to face the consequences of their actions.

“Please visit our website or call our UK Contact Centre on freephone 0800 555 111 at any time. By working together, we can help make Cumbria’s roads safer.”

Gary Murray, Crimestoppers North West Regional Manager 

“There is absolutely no excuse to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

“Many of us will be out and about over summer, enjoying the warm weather and sharing a few drinks with friends.

“If you are meeting with family and friends over the coming months please do not drive under the influence, always have a designated driver and get home safe.

“The police have zero tolerance for those who are caught over the limit and the perpetrator will face consequences.

“There is a culture around minding our own business but the safety of our friends, family and neighbours is a community responsibility.

“Please report drink/drug driving to the Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency or if you wish to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers – let’s keep Cumbria roads safe and accident free this Summer.”

Mike Johnson, Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner