Celebrate the New Year with a clean conscience

Police are urging drivers to make sure they can celebrate the New Year with a clear conscience – and not be tempted to drink and drive on the night. New Year’s Eve will see many people out partying to welcome in 2015. However police are warning drivers that their celebrations could easily be spoilt if they drink or take drugs and drive. Inspector Phil Bloor, from the Beds, Cambs and Herts Road Policing Unit, said: “If you drink or take drugs before driving your conscience cannot be clear. You are putting the lives of innocent people in danger, not to mention the risk of a criminal conviction, which could have knock on effects on your job and your family. “If you have to have a drink, then make sure you sort out a means to get home before you go out. Or if you have to drive, then stick to non-alcoholic drinks. It’s the only way to be sure that you’re safe and legal to get behind the wheel. “Don’t sign off 2014 with a drink driving conviction or, worse still, a road death to your name.” The Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Road Policing Unit will be conducting breathalyser checks round the clock throughout December – supporting the national Christmas drink drive campaign. Motorists found to be driving while under the influence of drink or drugs face a minimum of a 12-month disqualification from driving, as well as a fine and/or imprisonment. The offence of causing death by careless driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs now carries a maximum penalty of 14 years’ imprisonment and a disqualification of at least two years.