Sussex Police Launch Christmas Crackdown on Drink and Drug-Driving: “Think Again”

Sussex Police is warning motorists to “Think Again” as it launches its annual Christmas crackdown on drink and drug-driving. The month-long enforcement campaign begins as officers prepare for one of the busiest times of the year on the roads — and as collision data shows a sharp rise in serious incidents linked to alcohol and […]

Sussex Police is warning motorists to “Think Again” as it launches its annual Christmas crackdown on drink and drug-driving.

The month-long enforcement campaign begins as officers prepare for one of the busiest times of the year on the roads — and as collision data shows a sharp rise in serious incidents linked to alcohol and drugs.

Chief Constable Jo Shiner, who also serves as the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s lead for roads policing, issued a stark reminder of the dangers.

She said: “Every year, we see a number of innocent people killed or seriously injured on our roads by drivers who are high on drink or drugs, and it needs to stop. The impact on victims and their families is devastating. No one should expect to receive a knock on the door to be told they have lost their loved one due to a drink or drug-driver.”

Rising Number of Serious Collisions

Figures released by Sussex Police show the scale of the problem:

• 2024: 70 alcohol-related KSIs (killed or seriously injured) and 48 drug-related
• 2023: 27 alcohol-related and 19 drug-related
• 2022: 46 alcohol-related and 8 drug-related

Arrest figures remain high, with 1,128 drink-driving arrests and 1,021 drug-driving arrests made in 2024.

Chief Constable Shiner added: “We hear the same excuses every year – ‘I was only around the corner’… ‘I felt fine to drive’… ‘I didn’t think I’d get caught’. There is absolutely no excuse. Those who take that risk can expect a driving ban, a hefty fine, or even a prison sentence. For victims’ families, it is a life sentence.”

‘Think Again’ Drug-Driving Campaign Launched

This year’s operation introduces a new strand targeting drug-driving, aiming to debunk myths that offenders use to justify their behaviour – particularly about drugs lingering in the body for days or even weeks.

Last year’s campaign (1 December 2024 to 1 January 2025) resulted in 270 arrests for drink and drug-driving.

Police warn that many motorists remain unaware they may still be over the limit the morning after a night out, and that drug traces can remain long after initial consumption.

Police and Crime Commissioner: “Don’t Risk It”

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne urged drivers to make safe choices this festive season.

She said: “If you drink or take drugs and then drive, you are gambling with lives – your own and everyone else’s. The consequences can be catastrophic. Sussex Police will be out in force as part of Operation Limit. If you choose to drive under the influence, the chances are you will be caught.”

Bourne also highlighted the upcoming launch of the new Fatal Five Unit, which will target the most dangerous driving behaviours, including speeding, mobile phone use, and impaired driving.

Names of Offenders to Be Published

As in previous years, Sussex Police will publish the names of some convicted offenders to raise awareness and deter others.

Consequences of Drink or Drug-Driving

• Killing or seriously injuring yourself or someone else
• Minimum 12-month driving ban
• Unlimited fine
• Possible prison sentence
• Criminal record impacting employment
• Higher insurance premiums
• Travel restrictions, including to countries like the USA

Report Drink or Drug-Drivers

If you suspect someone is driving while impaired, call 999 immediately.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their online reporting service.