First time drink drivers to lose cars

Measures are being introduced which could see first-time drink-drivers in Scotland having their car seized.

Drivers who refuse a breath test for analysis without reasonable excuse could also have their vehicles taken from them.

The measures mark the launch of the annual police crackdown on dangerous drivers over the festive period which took place at the Scottish Parliament on Monday morning.

Last year 7,563 people in Scotland were caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, an average of around 20 offenders every day.

Now first-time drink-drivers who provide a sample for analysis which is three times the legal limit or more, and those who refuse a breath test, could have their vehicles taken away for good after conviction.

That would be in addition to receiving a criminal record, a fine and a 12-month driving ban.

The plans come after a forfeiture scheme introduced in 2009 to deal with repeat offenders.

It was extended in summer 2010 to include drug-drivers.

A total of 702 repeat offenders have been caught and 155 vehicles forfeited, with a further 18 vehicles seized pending court decisions.

According to the latest figures, it is estimated that just over one in seven deaths on Scottish roads involve drivers who are over the legal alcohol limit.