The European Traffic Police Network (TISPOL) is again urging drivers to not to drink any amount of alcohol before driving, and warns of the great danger of driving while impaired by alcohol, or drugs, or a combination of the two. 

Chief Superintendent Pasi Kemppainen (Inset), TISPOL president and chair of the organisation’s alcohol and drug working group, said: 'Any amount of alcohol affects your ability to drive, and you don’t have to be committing an offence to be taking a risk. Those who choose to ignore all the warnings and drive after drinking or using drugs are taking an unacceptable risk and are putting the lives of others in danger. 

'That’s why officers will be stepping up their enforcement during this coming week. Drivers can expect highly visible and widespread enforcement of alcohol and drug laws during the operation, at any location and at any time of day or night.

'Our advice is simple. If you have had a drink, do not drive. If you need to drive, then do not drink. If you have used recreational drugs, then do not drive. Stay sober, stay clean.

'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.'

During a similar week-long alcohol and drug operation in December 2010, a total of 796,812 drivers were checked in 27 European countries. Officers reported 12,030 alcohol offences and 1,266 drug offences.