Flintshire Police arrest three drivers on Friday for drug driving

North Flintshire Neighbourhood Police Team arrested three drivers for alleged drug driving on Friday.

This comes as part of the wider annual Christmas Anti Drink and Drug Drive Campaign across North Wales, which has resulted in over 100 arrests since its commencement on December 1st.

The arrested individuals included one driver who tested positive for cocaine and another for cannabis, who was also driving without insurance, leading to the seizure of their vehicle.

The passenger with the cannabis driver was found in possession of class B drugs and will be dealt with by an out of court disposal.

Inspector Leigh Evans of the Roads Crime Unit expressed disappointment and concern over the continued incidents of drug driving, despite repeated warnings.

Insp Evans emphasised the danger these drivers pose to themselves and others, stating, “Getting behind the wheel whilst under the influence of drink or drugs is one of the most selfish acts a driver can do.”

The campaign has seen a mix of 45 drink drive arrests and 59 drug drive arrests across the region.

Those suspected of drink driving face court appearances, potential loss of their licence, unlimited fines, and the possibility of imprisonment. Those arrested for drug driving await further test results, adding to the anxiety of the legal repercussions.

With the festive season in full swing, police anticipate increased activity and are urging the public to act responsibly.

The police are working closely with licensed premises to ensure public safety and continue their commitment to making roads safer.

Insp Evans pleaded with motorists to think before making the decision to drive and reminded them of the severe consequences of driving under the influence. The police are determined to target those who endanger lives and have issued a stern warning to the public.

‘One Can’t Hurt’ and Other Shocking Drink-Drive Excuses

A motoring organisation has urged drivers not to succumb to dodgy drink drive excuses during the Christmas period.

“I’ve only had one drink” is the most common drink drive excuse, with a shocking six out of 10 drivers having heard someone use it. Other frequently heard excuses include having eaten food to soak up the alcohol or only driving down the road.

The results come from an AA Charitable Trust recent survey.

The most common justifications heard that drivers give for drink driving are:

1. I’ve only had one drink (62%)
2. I’ve had food so that will soak the alcohol up (41%)
3. It’s only down the road (40%)
4. It’s been a while since the last drink (31%)
5. I won’t get caught (18%)
6. There won’t be any other traffic around (16%)
7. I know the route well (14%)

Young drivers (aged 18-to-24) were the most likely to have heard someone use the excuse “it’s only down the road” (55%). They were also almost twice as likely (22%;14%) as older drivers to say they had heard someone justify drink driving because they “knew the route well”.

Drivers in Wales were most likely to have heard someone justify drink driving because they “won’t get caught” (23%).

The latest official estimates show 260 people died as a result of a drink-drive crash in 2021 – almost a fifth (17%) of all fatalities.**

Edmund King, Director of The AA Charitable Trust, said: “Just one drink can be enough to put you over the drink-drive limit, and even if you are within the limit, it can still affect your judgement and ability to drive safely.

“We need drivers to hang up these excuses for good. Drinking and driving simply do not mix – if you are doing one, then you shouldn’t do the other.

“Drivers risk more than just a fine or losing their licence when they drink drive. Every year hundreds of people needlessly die on our roads because of drunk drivers.

“Everyone wants to enjoy Christmas – don’t let your ‘only one’ drink be your last.”

A drink driving conviction can result in up to 14 years imprisonment, an unlimited fine and disqualification from driving for two years.

Report Drivers Under the Influence

North Wales Police urge anyone suspecting someone of driving under the influence to report it immediately.

Reports can be made to North Wales Police on 101, via their live chat system, or to Crimestoppers anonymously.