Drivers have been warned of increases in police activity across the Midlands to crack down on rulebreakers during the Christmas period. The warning follows a campaign by Warwickshire Police which are stepping up enforcement activities against drink and drug drivers across the county during the Christmas and New Year period.The initiative comes as officers warn that while most motorists drive responsibly, a small number of reckless drivers continue to put lives at risk by driving under the influence. In a bid to stop rulebreakers from causing danger on UK roads, Operation Limit has been launched which aims to tackle “completely unacceptable and avoidable” behaviour.Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.ukDrivers can be arrested for driving while intoxicated by alcohol or drugsPAOfficers will be conducting targeted patrols and checks throughout December, with a particular focus on preventing drink and drug-related incidents during the festive season.These measures are particularly important as official data revealed that over 1,800 people are killed or seriously injured on UK roads each year due to drink and drug driving incidents. Inspector Si Paull of Warwickshire Police said: “During the operation, we will be taking an intelligence-led approach to ensure resources are deployed effectively and to target hotspot areas. “While enforcement is the only option for some drivers, our first choice will always be to educate the public to help change their behaviour to not drink or take drugs and drive.”Offenders caught drink-driving face severe penalties, including up to six months imprisonment and unlimited fines.Those found guilty could also receive a driving ban of at least one year, which extends to three years if convicted twice within a decade.The most serious cases, involving death by careless driving under the influence, can result in life imprisonment and a minimum five-year driving ban. Even being in charge of a vehicle while above the legal limit can lead to three months imprisonment and a £2,500 fine. Convicted drivers face additional consequences including significantly increased insurance costs and potential travel restrictions to countries like the United States.Paull added: “Due to the seriousness of the offence, we will be publicising drink and drug driving related arrests, charges and sentences during December. We will also be sharing the excuses that some drivers will inevitably come up with for drink or drug driving.“We will be doing this by sharing resources and information on social media throughout December in partnership with the Department for Transport’s THINK campaign, National Highways, and Crimestoppers.” A similar measure is being launched across Lincolnshire with many neighbouring police forces also taking part in the campaign. Simon Outen-Coe, from Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership, said: “While Christmas is a time to celebrate and enjoy with family, too many people are denied this opportunity through the actions of those who drink and drive.”LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:Motorists can be given a £2,500 penalty for drink-drivingGETTYHe added: “Unfortunately, too many individuals still take the chance to drive whilst they are unfit, over-estimating their ability, only to cause distress and anguish to others when they crash. “Please help keep yourself, loved ones and other road users safe this Christmas season by avoiding mixing alcohol or drugs and driving – it only takes a little drink to risk a lot when driving on our roads.”