Brake, the road safety charity, is urging drivers to pledge not to drink any alcohol before getting behind the wheel this summer, as the Association of Chief Police Officers' (ACPO) month-long drink and drug driving enforcement campaign kicks off.
The campaign will see police across England and Wales stepping up roadside alcohol and drug checks, and warning the public about the risks.
As part of last summer's campaign, 100,892 drivers were breathalysed, of whom 5,170 failed the test - a slight drop on the year before.
As the weather improves over the summer, some people may be tempted to have a drink as they travel to and from BBQs, festivals and other events - especially with the football World Cup looming large on the horizon. Brake is urging everyone to leave the car at home or ensure they have a completely sober designated driver for summer festivities, and to look out for friends and family to make sure they also plan ahead to get home without putting lives at risk.
Julie Townsend, deputy chief executive, Brake, said: "Drink driving remains one of the biggest killers on our roads, yet every year thousands of drivers risk it. That's why it's so important that the police are out in force clamping down on this selfish behaviour, now and throughout the year.
"However, even if you're under the limit, you can still be a danger: even very small amounts of alcohol significantly affect your judgement and reactions at the wheel.
"We need everyone on board with the message that motor vehicles and alcohol - in any amount - don't mix. We're calling on drivers to pledge to never drive after drinking even one drink, and for government to introduce a zero-tolerance drink drive limit, to help stamp out the deadly menace of drink driving once and for all."
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