Pictured above: Stephen Nye
National law firm Irwin Mitchell has welcomed the launch of a
new campaign designed to raise awareness of the dangers of
drink-driving over the festive period among Walsall residents.
Stephen Nye from the firm's Birmingham office has backed the
launch of the Morning Breath initiative, which is specifically
focused on the dangers of driving the morning after drinking
alcohol.
As well as producing guidance on the potential risks, the town's
road safety team is also regularly updating a Facebook page with
general advice on the issue.
Welcoming the initiative, Stephen Nye, who specialises in
serious injury claims related to road incidents in the Midlands,
said: "So many of the cases my team deals with highlight the
terrible, devastating consequences that drink-driving can have at
any time of year.
"However, the upcoming festivities mean that such campaigns are
even more vital, as many people may be tempted to get behind the
wheel. Alcohol can stay in the bloodstream for some time, so
drivers must always think about what they may be doing the morning
after a night out.
"If they need to drive in the morning, they should be aware that
alcohol can remain in the system for many hours and they may still
be unfit to drive, even if they have had some sleep. Any driver who
is concerned that they may be over the limit, should postpone their
journey and consider other forms of transport.
"A failure to do this could result in a serious accident, with
life-changing or even fatal consequences for pedestrians, other
road users or even the driver. It goes without saying that being
over the limit on the day after a night out is still an offence and
would result in a lengthy driving ban and could cost the offender
their job.
"This is an admirable initiative by Walsall Council, which
should make drivers think twice and hopefully avoid any of these
consequences arising."