Police said today that the results of this summer's drink-drive campaign showed drivers were still failing to get the message about the dangers of drink-driving.
A total of 3,646 motorists were breath tested between Monday, June 1, and Tuesday, July 1, as part of the national crackdown on drink-driving. 327 drivers (nine per cent) were subsequently arrested, including those who failed to give a sample of breath.
By comparison the summer 2007 campaign saw 15 per cent of drivers tested give a positive breath test and Christmas 2007 saw 14 per cent of drivers test positive.
Supt Mick Doyle, head of Roads Policing, said: "Nearly one in ten drivers stopped by police during this campaign gave a positive breath test."
"It is extremely disappointing that some drivers are still choosing to ignore our warnings and think it is acceptable to put their lives and the lives of other road users at risk.
"This particular campaign has ended but we will continue with the targeted, intelligence-led policing that has led to the high numbers of drink drivers being caught recently."
A total of 1,108 drivers were tested after collisions, and 84 of these tested positive.
All drivers who provided a positive breath test or who refused or failed to provide, will face losing their licence for at least 12 months. They could also be imprisoned for six months or pay a fine of up to £5,000.
A total of 871 under 25s were breathalysed, with 85 young drivers testing positive. Of the over 25s 2,775 were tested and 242 drivers tested positive.
Supt Doyle added: "For some time many people have thought that younger drivers have got the message about drink driving, however, these figures support recent research which demonstrates that drinking and driving is an issue for younger drivers and that the message of just how dangerous it is to drink and drive is not getting through.
"It is not difficult to avoid drink-driving - take a taxi, stay at a friend's house, nominate a designated driver or just don't drink, otherwise the consequences could be disastrous.
"I would urge anyone who sees someone getting into a vehicle after drinking to call police on 999 immediately. If you have information about suspected drink-drivers, call the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505, or if you don't want to speak to police, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article