04/07/11
By Shane Gladstone
A drink and drug-drive campaign has been launched by police across Scotland.
The police campaign will run until June 20 in a bid to deter motorists from getting behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (Acpos) is coordinating the campaign - which is set to run for two weeks.
People caught drink-driving could face a fine of up to £5,000 as well as an automatic driving ban for 12 months, according to Acpos.
A court conviction will stay on a person's licence for 11 years, as well as a criminal record that can remain for 20 years.
All of Scotland's police forces are urging people to consider not only the impact a conviction for drink or drug driving would have on them but also the wider implications for family and friends.
They are also reminding motorists that should they be caught out for a second time, a request will be made for the seizure and possible destruction of their vehicle.
In 2009/10 more than 8,500 drivers were caught drink or drug driving and since December 2009 around 120 vehicles have been sold or destroyed.
Assistant Chief Constable Tom Ewing from Fife Constabulary, who is the Acpos road policing business area secretary, said: "I would encourage all road users to seriously consider the consequences involved with drink or drug driving, not only the punishments that can be imposed but also to consider the high possibility that driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs could result in your death or that of a passenger within your vehicle.
"No journey is worth the risk."
