Police in the Highlands and Islands are warning drivers to plan their trip home in advance if they want to enjoy a drink this summer.
Officers will be involved in a national road safety campaign aimed at detecting drivers who are under the influence of drink or drugs.
Despite several high profile campaigns highlighting the dangers of drinking and driving, officers continue to stop motorists who have ignored the risks and got behind the wheel while under the influence.
Three motorists – two men and one woman – were stopped in the Inverness, Easter Ross and Isle of Lewis areas on Thursday. All three will be reported for drink driving offences.
Over the next fortnight officers will carry out high visibility patrols and roadside checks aimed at removing drink drivers from the roads.
They will also be watching for early morning motorists who may be under the influence from the night before.
Road Policing Inspector Neil Lumsden said: “With the fine weather and the holiday season starting, it is a good opportunity of socialise with friends and family.
“If you go out planning to have a drink then make sure you have a safe plan for getting home – whether it is walking, public transport or taxi.
“If it is more spontaneous and unplanned, go through the same thought process and make sure you know how you’ll get home before you have that first drink.
“The next morning, make sure you are safe to drive before getting back behind the wheel. We will be watching for drivers still over the limit in the mornings so don’t take the risk.
“Everything we do is aimed at improving the safety of everyone using our roads. The message is simple – there is no safe limit. If you need to drive then do not drink at all.”
Anyone with concerns about a suspected drink driver can call Police Scotland on 101 or 999 in an emergency situation. You can also pass information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
