Police Scotland to launch ‘summer blitz’ on drink and drug driving

From Monday, officers are set to take part in a “summer blitz” over the next fortnight to ensure that drivers are obeying the law.

The latest figures show that the number of motorists caught driving under the influence (DUI) has increased by more than 10% over the past decade.

The most recent Recorded Crime in Scotland report showed 8041 DUI offences in 2023/24, which represents an increase of 3% from the previous and 54% since 2014/15.

Separate figures from Transport Scotland reveal there are 210 casualties a year caused by drink driving, although this has shown a steady decrease since 2000.

READ MORE: Scottish city found to have most expensive Wetherspoons pint in UK

The Scottish drink drive limit was lowered in December 2014 from 80mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood to 50mg.

A study of 1000 people in Scotland by breathalyser firm AlcoSense found 53% of motorists have since reduced the amount of alcohol they drink when they will be driving later that day or the following morning.

“But there’s still a persistent minority who flout the law and drive above the limit”, said Hunter Abbott of Alcosense.

“When you go out drinking this Summer, plan ahead for how you’ll get home – whether it’s walking, public transport, taxi or designated alcohol-free driver.

READ MORE: Tory student group apologises after dancing to Nazi marching song

“If you’ve been drinking the night before, we recommend a personal breathalyser to check you’re clear in the morning.”

During Police Scotland’s last crackdown over the festive period officers conducted 3219 breath tests and used 481 drug wipes.

More than 100 more offences were logged compared to the previous Christmas, with 831 motorists penalised compared to 722 the previous year.