TfGM road safety campaign to warn against consequences of drink and drug driving

Drivers in Greater Manchester are being warned about the potentially fatal consequences of drink and drug driving as part of a summer campaign from Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM).

The Safer Roads Greater Manchester campaign aims to raise awareness of the impact of drink and drug driving by making it clear that there is no safe level of drinking or drug use if you are going to be driving, and that it is better having none for the road.

Someone impaired by drink or drugs is more likely to be involved in a road traffic collision and seriously hurting themselves, their passengers and other road users, while also increasing the risk of a driving ban or prosecution. Between 2019 and 2023 in Greater Manchester, driver impairment was given as the main cause for 514 road traffic collisions on the region’s roads, resulting in 851 casualties. Of these, more than a quarter (28%) of people involved died or suffered serious injuries.

Peter Boulton, TfGM’s Network Director for Highways, said:

“Anyone who decides to drive after drinking or taking drugs must be prepared for the consequences that follow. They are putting themselves and others in danger, and also risk ending up with a criminal record, a driving ban or a prison sentence.

“Unfortunately people on our roads are still being killed or seriously injured as a result of road traffic collisions where driver impairment, whether that’s caused by alcohol or illegal substances, is a major factor.

“Behind each of these numbers is a life forever changed by injury, or a life lost and mourned by loved ones – all because someone thought it was acceptable to drink alcohol or take drugs before driving.

“I hope this campaign encourages people to think twice about getting behind the wheel while under the influence and stay safe because it’s more likely you will get caught or cause real harm to yourself or others, and the risks are simply not worthwhile.”

Chief Inspector Michael Parker from Greater Manchester Police’s Safer Transport Team, said:

“Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol puts lives at serious risk and can have devastating consequences.

“We understand the warmer weather can bring with it more opportunities to drink, but our message remains the same all year round – drink and drug driving can be deadly, and we urge people to ask themselves if they or the person driving is safe to do so before getting in the car.

“We are committed to reducing the number of fatal and serious collisions on our roads and will be running regular roadside operations throughout the summer, with officers conducting regular roadside tests.

“You may feel safe to drive, but even the smallest amount of drugs or alcohol in your system can impair judgement. Help us to keep our roads safe by leaving the car keys at home and calling out your mates who are not fit to drive – it could save a life.”