Give the 'gift of a lift' this Christmas

Road Safety GB North East (RSGB NE) is working with the police and fire services in urging people to either be the designated driver or to leave their car keys at home when out celebrating in the run up to Christmas.

Drivers are urged to have no alcoholic drinks if getting behind the wheel, and to think about whether it is safe to drive the morning after drinking - it takes roughly one hour for one unit of alcohol to leave your system.

Over the last five years, 112 people have been injured in Sunderland in collisions involving a driver who was found to be over the drink-drug limit. Of these, two people were killed and 27 were seriously injured.

Cheryl Ford-Lyddon, chair of RSGB NE, said: "We know this Christmas is going to be special to a lot of people, but as we head into the festive season, we want to remind people not to get behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs.

"When people are making plans, they should be planning their transport home as well. Don't leave it to the last minute as that is when poor decisions are made.

"Decide early on if you're going to drink or drive. You can't do both."

Chief Inspector Ian Cutty, of Northumbria Police, said: "We know that people will want to enjoy a drink with loved ones this festive period but we're urging people to think before they drink.

"Don't get behind the wheel of a vehicle when you have been drinking. Your decision could result in a serious or fatal injury and it could have devastating and irreversible consequences for more than one family this Christmas.

"Also, if you need to drive the next morning then make sure you drink responsibly the night before. Don't get behind the wheel until you know it's safe to do so."

Steve Johnson, Area Manager, Cleveland Fire Brigade, said: "The consequences of not planning ahead and taking risks, all too often, results in more than bent metal. Lives can be destroyed.

"We can all play a part in keeping our roads safe. Make it 'none for the road' and stay safe this winter."

Steven Thomas, Head of Prevention and Education at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: "The festive season is a time for fun and celebration, and with the long-standing effects of the pandemic people may see this Christmas and New Year as being the perfect opportunity to let their hair down. 

"The last thing our crews want over the Christmas period is to attend a fatal road traffic collision that could have been avoided. People have safe and sensible options on how to get home. Please make the right decision as the wrong one could cost you your life or the life of somebody's loved one."

For more information about Road Safety GB North East, go to www.lookoutroadsafety.co.uk.