Figures show 107 offences recorded in Glasgow during last year’s festive period

A hard-hitting campaign by The Scottish Government and Police Scotland aimed at tackling drink and drug-driving is being supported by Glasgow Taxis with a reminder for drivers to use a designated driver after the festive celebrations, including the morning after, by calling on a taxi, a colleague, friend, or family member to plan a safe journey home.

The campaign has been launched after a record number of drivers being caught drink or drug-driving.

Last year’s efforts resulted in more drink and drug-drivers being caught over the festive period than ever, with 107 offences recorded in Glasgow between 1st December 2023 and 2nd January 2024. Police Scotland is now warning offenders that anyone who drives with alcohol or drugs in their system, endangering themselves and others, risks being caught.

With police officers able to carry out immediate roadside drug testing using a simple swab, it’s easier than ever for officers to catch drug-drivers, with almost 50 per cent of tests showing up positive.

The most recent figures available, from 2022, show that drink-driving is estimated to have resulted in 30 deaths and a further 280 injuries.

Glasgow Taxi Chairman, Dougie McPherson, said: “We urge all drivers not to risk drink or drug-driving – leave the car and call a designated driver to get you home safely.”

Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs, Angela Constance said: “Our message is clear – drink or drug-driving is illegal and can ruin lives. As well as putting the driver, passengers and other road users at risk of injury, or even death, those found guilty face a driving ban, a criminal record, a large fine and up to six months in prison.

“There is never an excuse for drink or drug-driving – so don’t risk it.”

Police Scotland is urging people to make transport plans before heading out to festivities.

Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, head of Road Policing, said: “Our officers will be working hard to relentlessly target drivers who choose to drink alcohol or take drugs.

It doesn’t matter how good a driver you think you are, alcohol or drugs will affect your reactions and your judgement.”

The campaign aims to emphasise the long-lasting effects of drugs and alcohol and remind people that even one drink can take them over the alcohol limit. You can still be unfit to drive the morning after drinking or taking drugs, and some drugs can remain in your system for days.

Chief Superintendent Sloan continued: “We will be doing everything we can to protect the public and support crucial road safety partnerships to encourage behaviour change, but we also need your help.

“The influence people can have on their family and friends can be lifesaving.

“If you know someone is going to drive after drinking alcohol or taking drugs, please speak to them.

“We all have a responsibility to improve road safety.”

The new drink and drug-driving advertising campaign highlights how easy it is to catch drivers under the influence, that even one drink can put you over the limit, and that you can still be over the limit the morning after. It will run during the festive period on radio, digital and outdoor channels supported by a PR and social media campaign.

For more information go to roadsafety.scot or the Road Safety Scotland Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter) (@roadsafetyscot) pages.