'No safe way to drink and drive'

Police warn festive revellers

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POLICE are urging the public to report suspected drink drivers this Christmas after revealing intoxication has been a factor in a quarter of all fatal collisions this year.

Avon and Somerset Police launched its annual festive crackdown yesterday with data showing 2025 has been a significant year for collisions on the roads. Officers will conduct proactive roadside checks and speak to drivers about the dangers of driving under the influence which has contributed to eight deaths so far this year.

New data also reveals drivers in the region are nearly 40 per cent more likely to be breath tested in December. The force carried out 2,272 roadside tests last December compared with a monthly average of 1,644 throughout the rest of the year. Of those stopped 371 drivers failed the test which equates to 16 per cent.