New figures released by Police Scotland have shown that new drink driving limits introduced at the start of the month have had a dramatic effect.
In the three weeks to December 29 a total of 13,346 motorists were breathalysed by police in Scotland – with 255 found to be over the new limit of 50mg per 100ml of blood.
That is a 27% decrease on the number caught for the same period last year – but while the lower figures is being welcomed, Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said it was “still unacceptable”.
He said: “In the last three weeks we have conducted a series of road checks around the country and have breathalysed almost 13,400 drivers, equating to 640 drivers each day.
“It is heartening to see a reduction in the total numbers of drivers who are drinking before getting behind the wheel, but the fact that 255 people have still chosen to do so is still entirely unacceptable in my view.”
ACC Higgins added that police advice ahead of the Hogmanay celebrations remains that drivers should take no alcohol at all if they intend to get behind the wheel of a car.
People in Moray who suspect anyone of driving while under the influence are being asked to call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.