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Herts Police today launches campaign against festive drink and drug driving
A MONTH-long campaign to combat drink and drug driving over the festive period has today (1) been launched by Hertfordshire Police.
The county-wide scheme, which runs until January 1, aims to inform motorists of the consequences of being intoxicated behind the wheel.
Officers have been briefed to carry out breath tests and Field Impairment Tests (FIT) - an examination of eye pupils and four psycho-physical tests to establish whether a person is capable of driving - to all drivers involved in road collisions.
They will also be looking for suspicious driving as part of their usual patrols.
Chief Inspector Donna Pierce, of the Road Policing Strategic Unit, said: "Last year's campaign saw an increase in those arrested for driving while under the the influence of drink or drugs. Anyone tempted to do so this year can rest assured they will be targeted by officers in the same way.
"Make sure you enjoy the party season safely and never be tempted to take the chance that you are under the legal limit.
"Any amount of alcohol affects your reactions, and not only could you ruin your Christmas, lose your licence and even your job, you could seriously injure or kill yourself, someone close to you or someone else's loved one."
Anyone found to be driving under the influence of drink or drugs can face a minimum 12-month disqualification, as well as a fine and or imprisonment.
Causing death by careless driving while under the influence now carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in jail, and a two-year driving ban.
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