A 17-YEAR-old boy was one of 241 motorists arrested for drink or drug-driving during a festive road safety campaign.
The teenager was arrested at the scene of a collision in Pucklechurch on December 14, when a car containing five people crashed into and brought down a telegraph pole.
A police spokesperson said: “Fortunately, nobody in the vehicle suffered significant injuries.”
The teenager was later charged with driving while over the alcohol limit, without a licence and with no insurance.
The arrests across the Avon and Somerset force area were part of Operation Limit, a national police drive to reduce fatal and serious road collisions during December. Most were made at roadside check sites, during proactive traffic patrols or by using information reported by members of the public.
Police say drink-driving accounted for 62% of arrests, with drug-driving making up 38%.
Drivers aged from 25 to 34 made up 32% of those arrested, 35 to 44-year-olds accounted for 24% and under-25s 20%.
The vast majority of those arrested – 88.4% – were male.
In South Gloucestershire, 46 drivers were arrested, while there were 66 arrests in Bristol, 14 in B&NES, 36 in North Somerset and 80 in Somerset.
Avon & Somerset police say drink-driving accounts for 17% of fatalities on UK roads, with drug driving posing an “equally severe risk” to road safety, impairing reaction times, coordination and judgement.
Force head of roads policing and road safety Chief Inspector Robert Cheeseman said: “Throughout the festive period, 241 individuals made the reckless decision to drive under the influence of drink or drugs.
“Thanks to proactive policing and public support, we’ve ensured they are no longer a threat to others on the road.
“Choosing to drive while impaired is not just illegal – it’s a deeply irresponsible act that can shatter lives in an instant.
“Every collision caused by drink or drug driving leaves behind a ripple effect of pain and heartbreak. We’re grateful to everyone who shared information with us during this campaign. Every report helps us take decisive action and sends a strong message: drink and drug driving will not be tolerated”
People can report someone they know to be a drink-driver at any time by calling 101 or online at tinyurl.com/3nw678fy.
Tip-offs can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Reports of anyone currently out on the road under the influence of drink or drugs should always be made immediately, by calling 999.