KEEP RENFREWSHIRE’S ROADS SAY THIS CHRISTMAS – SAY LOCAL POLITICIANS
Thursday, 3rd December 2009
As the festive period approaches, local Labour politicians are urging drivers not take any chances by drinking and driving and help keep Renfrewshire’s roads safe.
The trend in drink driving is slightly down in Renfrewshire, this is good news. In 07/8 there were 394 motorists charged on Renfrewshire’s roads for drink/drug driving offences. It fell to 383 last year (08/9) – but it is not clear it will fall again this year. Already 349 motorists in Renfrewshire have been charged with drink/drug driving offences this year. Local politicians say these figures show there are still a significant number of drivers who are still prepared to take the risk.
Ahead of the annual police drink driving campaign, Paisley MSP Wendy Alexander, and Renfrewshire MPs Douglas Alexander and Jim Sheridan are urging motorists to take a zero tolerance approach this year.
The Labour politicians are calling on all motorists to consider the safety of themselves and other road users before drinking even the smallest amount of alcohol and getting behind the wheel.
Speaking as the party season approaches, Wendy Alexander MSP said:
“Despite a reduction in the number of people charged for drink/drug driving offences last year, there are still far too many motorists who are prepared to risk their lives and the lives of other road users”
“I want Renfrewshire’s streets to be safe this Christmas. So this year leave the car at home and take the bus, or the train or even a taxi – but do not put other’s lives at risk.”
Douglas Alexander MP added:
“I know that this is a time of year when there are many Christmas lunches and parties and people have a couple of drinks and think they’re okay to drive. But varying glass sizes and the strength of the alcohol you are drinking can all contribute to putting you in the danger zone.
“More importantly I want to encourage people not to turn a blind eye when a friend or colleague has been drinking and plans to drive home. Anyone drinking and driving is a danger to themselves and other road users and this misguided loyalty could lead to a loss of life or someone being seriously injured.”