Police issue drink and drug driving warning as annual campaign begins
Angus partygoers are being urged to leave the car at home and plan a safe way home in advance by using public transport, booking a taxi, or arranging a lift with a trusted designated driver.
The warning comes after a record number of drink and drug drive tests were carried out last year.
Between December 1, 2024 and January 19, 2025, police carried out 5742 breath and roadside drug tests across Scotland, recording 961 offences.
Police Scotland is now warning that it will be clamping down even harder on those who risk endangering other people’s lives. According to the most recent figures available, in 2023 there were an estimated 200 collisions and 300 casualties caused by drink-driving on Scotland’s roads.
Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs Angela Constance and Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren, Police Scotland’s Head of Road Policing, told drivers to think twice before getting behind the wheel.
Ms Constance said: "A split-second’s mistake can have lifelong consequences, not just for you but for your passengers, other road users and the families whose lives have been affected. You could go to prison, lose your licence, lose your livelihood and face a substantial fine. No party or favour to a friend is ever worth it.”
Chief Superintendent McCarren added: “Our officers carry out enforcement every single day and both alcohol and drugs can impact your ability to drive the next morning.
“It’s easy to catch drink and drug drivers and we can carry out immediate roadside testing. This festive season, keep yourself and others safe by planning your journey home in advance and avoiding alcohol and drugs completely if you’re getting behind the wheel.”
A separate campaign tackling risky behaviours among younger drivers has also been launched. Young male drivers age 17-25 are twice as likely to be involved in a collision and represent the highest risk group.
Drivers caught while impaired will face penalties including a 12-month driving ban, a fine of up to £5000, penalty points and up to six months in prison.