Every year, the police launch a drink driving campaign, aiming to reduce the number of people drink driving over Christmas and the New Year.
How Many People are Caught Drink Driving at Christmas?
In 2016, new legislation meant that the police could randomly stop vehicles at authorised vehicle checkpoints, and carry out a breathalyser test on the driver.
From the end of November 2018 and the 1st January 2019, the police stopped and breathalysed 11,500 people. Of these people, 322 failed the test and were arrested.
The police will be carrying out the same duty this year, 24 hours a day, over the festive period.
The Effects of Alcohol Whilst Driving
If you drive at twice the current legal limit, you are 50 times more likely to have a car crash.
Alcohol affects the senses we need when driving, including eyesight and reflexes. When you have consumed alcohol, there is a delay in the time it takes your brain to receive messages, this results in slower reactions which could prove fatal on the road.
Drink Driving Penalties
The penalties for drink driving will depend on the nature of the offence. The maximum prison sentence for death by careless driving when under the influence of alcohol is 14 years. You may also receive an unlimited fine, a ban from driving and may have to take an extended driving test before your license is returned.
Alongside the penalties imposed by the law, many face social consequences, including embarrassment, higher insurance fees (if they do drive again) and potentially losing their job.
Broadbents Solicitors
We handle a wide variety of road traffic cases, including drink driving. Our dedicated team have been providing comprehensive guidance and advice since before the introduction of the breathalyser. If you need the help of one of our expert team, please call today on Alfreton 01773 832 511, Derby 01332 369 090, Heanor 01773 769 891, Sutton-in-Ashfield 01623 441 123.
