The campaign is co-ordinated by TISPOL (the European Traffic Police Network), and will see highly visible and widespread enforcement of alcohol and drug laws at any location and at any time of day or night.   

During a similar week-long operation in December 2013, 1.1 million drivers were checked in 31 European countries. Officers reported 15,305 alcohol offences and 2,133 drug offences, as well as more than 2,500 other crimes.    

TISPOL president Aidan Reid also warned drivers about the need to be aware of the continuing effects of alcohol the day after an evening of drinking.

‘Your body takes time to remove alcohol from your system. If it is still present in your body, then it will be identified during a breath test. That’s why a night’s sleep is no guarantee that you’re safe and legal to drive the next morning,’ he said.   

‘If you have used recreational drugs, then do not drive. If you are taking medicine, whether prescribed or purchased over the counter, then read the notes of advice that go with it. If these tell you not to drive after taking the medicine, then do not drive. The advice is there for a reason, to keep you and others safe.’   

‘If you are in any doubt about medicines and driving, then our advice is to consult a healthcare professional before you get behind the wheel.’