It’s almost Christmas again. And police forces up and down the country are already watching out vigilantly for motorists suspected of being over the legal limit. The annual Government anti-drink driving campaign has been launched warning of the consequences of a second drink.
And in North Yorkshire a story has emerged of a drunken driver who hit a metal barrier in Tadcaster and fled the scene. Rather than be found wandering the streets or behind a locked door at home he was instead discovered by police officers in a shed hidden behind bales of hay and the figure of baby Jesus amongst a Nativity scene. His subsequent arrest prompted the police to post the news on Twitter; “Driver runs from RTC in Tadcaster and tries to hide in nativity display. Located and arrested”.
The publicity prompted by the police led to humorous comments from other social media users with “Obviously not one of the wise men” and “God arrest ye merry gentlemen” being typical. Even a police officer got in on the act and posted this message “Gold star to my North Yorkshire Police colleagues as one ‘myrrh’ drink driver with no ‘(frankin)sense’ is taken off the road”.
The consequences of even one drink before driving are well known to just about everybody and, as a lawyer who does his best to pick up the pieces for clients who find themselves in the often nightmare position of facing a drink driving conviction, I urge anyone and everyone to be extremely cautious. It is far better to not drink and drive or to drink and plan and keep to alternative non-driving arrangements so as to avoid the risk of that barman or random member of the public calling the police to say you’ve driven off while obviously under the influence.
Of course if the worst does happen and you are experiencing the shock from an arrest for drink (or indeed drug) driving it is strongly advised you seek legal advice as soon as possible. It can make a significant difference and hearing from someone who understands the court process step by step is often very reassuring.
While Newnham & Jordan will be closed for Christmas in common with almost all law firms there is always the means to reach a lawyer at any time. Just ring the out of hours number 0845 680 7871 or Email office@newnham-jordan.co.uk and you will receive a call back within no time at all. Support is never more than a phone call away.
