Festive crackdown on drink and drug driving begins as Operation Limit launches

Greater Manchester Police have launched a month-long road safety campaign targeting drink and drug drivers in the run-up to Christmas and New Year.

Operation Limit began today,Monday 1 December, as part of a national effort to reduce deaths and serious injuries caused by impaired driving over the festive season.

Throughout December and into the new year, officers across Greater Manchester will be carrying out roadside checks in every district. In addition to testing for alcohol and drugs, police will also target what are known as the Fatal Five offences: speeding, mobile phone use, not wearing a seatbelt, careless driving, and driving under the influence.

The campaign forms part of Greater Manchester’s wider Vision Zero strategy, which aims to eliminate road deaths and life-changing injuries by 2040.

Last year, 570 arrests were made in Greater Manchester for drink and drug driving offences over the same period.

Chief Inspector Michael Parker from GMP’s Safer Transport Team said: “We have a zero-tolerance approach to drink and drug driving and over the festive period we are focusing our efforts on tackling these issues.

“Our officers see the devastating impact of impaired driving far too often. We will be out in force, taking action against anyone who thinks they can ignore the law.”

Chief Insp Parker added that while enforcement is a priority, education also plays a role: “Driving under the influence can change your life, and the lives of others, in an instant. No night out is worth risking your life.”

Deputy Mayor for Safer and Stronger Communities, Kate Green, echoed the warning, saying: “Drink and drug driving continues to cause heart-breaking and completely preventable harm. We cannot allow it to put more people at risk.

“I’m asking people to plan ahead, make sensible decisions, and look after themselves and others this festive period.”

Roadside breath tests and drug wipes will be used throughout the campaign, and members of the public are encouraged to report any concerns by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency. Reports can also be made anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

More information on drink and drug driving laws and penalties is available on the Greater Manchester Police website.