We are forever being reminded about the dangers of drink driving by motoring authorities. This has resulted in higher awareness rates of the potential dangers that this brings as well as more substantial penalties than ever before.
How much is too much?
A large number of people who are going out with friends will still allow themselves to have at least one alcoholic beverage even if they are driving. This is due to their belief that it will not push them over the government’s legal alcohol limit of a maximum of 80mg or alcohol per 100ml of blood.
However, it is very difficult to get this exactly right, with people having different body masses and tolerances which can impact upon these readings. Hunger can affect how your body reacts, with those who are hungrier likely to be affected by smaller amounts than those who have just had a heavy meal for instance.
Also bear in mind that having any alcohol at all in your system when an accident occurs could be grounds for your insurance company to refuse to pay-out in the event of a claim being made. It is therefore advised that you avoid alcoholic drinks altogether if you know that you are going to be behind the wheel later in the day.
Possible penalties
Drink driving will result in a DR10 conviction being handed out to the offender if they are caught. This is one of the more serious convictions which can result in a driving ban for 12 months and potentially even imprisonment for a six month period. This is on top of a potential £5,000 financial penalty.
This is of course the minimum legal punishment if you are caught, but you should also consider the possible consequences to others if you cause an accident through dangerous driving. Not only would you have a heavy weight on your shoulders morally, but you could also face a potential 14 year jail term if the accident results in a fatality.
The impact of a conviction on insurance
The average motorist is now paying £921 per year for car insurance according to the AA. In light of this expense, you would expect motorists to do everything in their power to prevent any additional charges.
However, research by MoneySupermarket revealed that a motoring conviction can pump up the cost of premiums by up to 78%. This translates in a whopping £718.38 for the average motorist; an additional expenditure which the majority of us simply cannot afford. Drink driving also happens to be an offence which would attract one of these heftier financial penalties.
MoneySupermarket’s Steve Sweeney has backed the stance of motoring authorities and insurers; claiming that people who drive while under the influence of alcohol are not only endangering themselves but also other road users and pedestrians.
Assign a designated driver
You could decide to book a taxi to take you to and from your chosen destination, but this does of course cost money. A far cheaper option is assigning a designated driver for each night out, which could potentially work on a rota system.
If you have a friend who does not drink alcohol at all you are in a very lucky minority and could potentially ask this person to take on the driving responsibilities in exchange for petrol money. Not only is this cheaper than a taxi, but it is also far safer than taking to the wheel when under the influence of alcohol. Don’t be tempted to take the risk.
Stay safe everyone!
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