Eighteen people caught drink driving at weekend
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POLICE have hit out at motorists who continue to ignore the dangers of drink driving after 18 people were caught under the influence behind the wheel last weekend.
Nine people were caught in Aberdeenshire, seven in Aberdeen and two in Moray.
Ten of the 18 drivers were aged between 17 and 25-years-old.
Two of the motorists were also found to be under the influence of drugs.
Leslie Harrold, road safety manager with Road Safety Grampian, said: "It is extremely disappointing that people continue to ignore the very real dangers of drinking and driving. These people not only risked their own lives but also the lives of others by driving while under the influence of drink or drugs.
"They will now face a ban of twelve months or more from driving and a fine. That will be twelve months without being able to take the car to work, the shops or on holiday, simply because they chose to risk their driving licence by driving after drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
"One of the most disappointing things is that 55% of the drivers caught were young motorists. In all likelihood, these drivers would have recently had visits in school from road safety staff spelling out the dangers of drink or drug driving.
"It all comes down to personal responsibility. These drivers chose to drive when they knew it was not safe or legal to do so and they will now spend the next 12 months regretting that bad choice.
"It is simply down to good fortune and luck that they did not injure themselves or other innocent road users through their reckless actions.
"I would encourage members of the public to report anyone they know who are driving after taking alcohol or drugs. They can do this either through our 24-hour service centre on 0845 600 5700 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
