After the first two weeks, 87 drivers have been arrested on our roads on suspicion of drink or drug driving in Sussex.

Of those, 28 have already been charged with offences and will appear in court later this month or early in the New Year 2023.

Superintendent Rachel Glenton said: “It is concerning that we are still seeing so many irresponsible drivers getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.

“If you suspect someone is seeking to drive while over the limit for alcohol or drugs, you should report them to the police. It could save someone’s life.”

Previously, Sussex Police launched its campaign called Drink-Driving, Together We Can Stop It, which encourages the public to prevent, persuade, and report drink-drivers to save lives.

You can help prevent drink driving by taking steps such as pre-booking a taxi before a night out, agreeing with friends or loved ones to attend a venue where you can all walk to, or agree to have a designated driver for the night who does not drink alcohol.

Friends and family members are also encouraged to help persuade someone who may be intoxicated not to get behind the wheel, such as by offering a lift with a designated driver, offering a place to stay, booking them a taxi, or taking a drink-driver’s keys off them.

But if you are unable to prevent or persuade a drink-driver, the public are urged to report them to the police.

Being intoxicated through either alcohol or drugs is one of the “fatal five” factors in why people are killed or seriously injured on our roads.

The other factors are driving at excess speed, not wearing a seatbelt, being distracted such as by using a mobile phone, and careless or inconsiderate driving.

The consequences of drink or drug-driving could include the following:

·       A minimum 12 month ban;

·       An unlimited fine;

·       A possible prison sentence;

·       A criminal record, which could affect your current and future employment;

·       An increase in your car insurance;

·       Trouble travelling to countries such as the USA;

·       You could also kill or seriously injure yourself or someone else