MORE than 200 people were found to be over the limit for alcohol/drugs in Somerset over December.

241 arrests were made in a single month by Avon and Somerset Police as part of the national policing operation, Operation Limit.

The operation aims to reduce fatal and serious road traffic collisions and protect road users during December.

Police used a variety of techniques to target drink/drug drivers – including stop check sites, intelligence-led stops, public reports, and proactive patrols.

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A 17-year-old was arrested as part of the operation when his car containing five people crashed into a telegraph pole.

Luckily, police said nobody in the vehicle suffered significant injuries.

The 17-year-old was arrested at the scene and later charged with the offences of driving while in excess of the alcohol limit, driving without a license, and without third-party insurance.

He is due to appear in court later this month.

Police said drink driving accounted for 62% of arrests during the operation, while drug driving offences accounted for 38%.

“Drivers aged between 25-34 accounted for 32% of arrests, followed by the 35-44 age group (24%) and under-25s (20%),” an Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said.

“88.4% of those arrested were male.

“The highest number of arrests occurred in Somerset, where 80 people were found to be over the limit. This was followed by Bristol (66) and South Gloucestershire (46). North Somerset saw 36 arrests, and BANES 14.”

Shining a spotlight on the dangers of drug driving

A police spokesperson added: “Drink driving remains a leading cause of road deaths, accounting for 17% of fatalities on UK roads.

“However, drug driving poses an equally severe risk to road safety.

“Drugs, including cannabis and cocaine, can impair reaction times, coordination, and judgement, significantly increasing the likelihood of a serious collision.”

This message was highlighted in an interview with Samantha Davies, the mother of Daniel Davies, who tragically died at the age of 16 thanks to the actions of a drug driver.

In the interview, Samantha shared the devastating impact of losing her son and urged people to consider the consequences of their actions.

She said: “Dan had his whole life ahead of him.

“I will never know whether he went on to be the person I imagined he probably would. It’s a sadness, sadder than any sad you’ll ever, ever feel.”

Chief Inspector Robert Cheeseman, head of roads policing and road safety for Avon and Somerset Police, said: “Throughout the festive period, 241 individuals made the reckless decision to drive under the influence of drink or drugs.

“Thanks to proactive policing and public support, we’ve ensured they are no longer a threat to others on the road.

“Choosing to drive while impaired is not just illegal—it’s a deeply irresponsible act that can shatter lives in an instant.

“Every collision caused by drink or drug driving leaves behind a ripple effect of pain and heartbreak for families and communities.

“We’re grateful to everyone who shared information with us during this campaign.

“Every report helps us take decisive action and sends a strong message: drink and drug driving will not be tolerated on our roads.”

If caught driving above the legal limit, road users can face up to six months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine and a substantial driving ban.

Causing death by careless driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Report drink/drug drivers via the police website or by calling 101.