Fewer motorists breathalysed in South Yorkshire now than a decade ago

Across England and Wales, the number of roadside breath tests fell to 285,000 in 2019 – the lowest level since comparable records began in 2002.

Home Office figures show 5,795 breath tests were conducted by South Yorkshire Police in 2019 – 86 per cent fewer than in 2009, when there were 42,232.

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The lowest number of tests carried out in South Yorkshire over recent years was in 2018, when there were 4,893.

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AA president Edmund King blamed the ‘massive reduction in the number of specialist traffic officers’ for the reduction in testing.

He added: “While cameras are a useful tool in helping police our roads, we cannot solely rely on them.

“A camera cannot stop a drink-driver, or pull over someone driving carelessly, so having more cops in cars will help eliminate poor and dangerous driving.

“The lack of roads police has led to drivers thinking they can get away with certain offences.”

A recent report by the parliamentary advisory council for transport safety found that the number of officers dedicated to roads policing in England and Wales fell by nearly a fifth between 2015 and 2019.

RAC roads safety spokesman Simon Williams said: “These are extremely worrying figures and will only further arouse suspicion from drivers that road traffic laws are simply not being properly enforced.”

The Home Office data showed that four tests were carried out in South Yorkshire for every 1,000 people – below the average, of six, across England and Wales.

The Government said drivers being more aware of the law and police prosecuting under more serious offences could be some of the reasons why numbers are falling.

South Yorkshire Police said: “As a force we are committed to tackling drink driving and those who drive whilst under the influence of drugs. Our officers take positive action throughout the year, including dedicated operations, particularly around key events and Christmas.

“As with all types of crime, our enforcement approach is continually reviewed in line with demand and resourcing.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.