Insurer warns against drink-driving as pubs and restaurants re-open

Clare Egan, Head of Motor at Admiral, said: “With pubs and restaurants re-opening and licensing laws being relaxed, we could see people tempted to get behind the wheel after a drink but it’s vital to understand the implications of taking this risk.

“Being caught over the limit can see a driver face up to 6 months in prison, an unlimited fine and a driving ban of at least one year, not to mention the potential life-changing impact it can have if it leads to a crash.

“Those who are convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol could find their insurance premiums increasing by more than 250% – if they can get insurance at all. But the financial penalties don’t stop there, if you do have an accident while drink-driving many insurers will refuse to cover the cost of damages, meaning drivers could be left with hefty sums to pay including the cost of third party claims.

“The UK is gradually coming out of lockdown and many people will naturally be looking to enjoy the eased restrictions, but we’d urge people to think first before heading out to the pub or a restaurant; if you’re planning to have a drink, think about how you will get there and back safely first.

“Remember, there are different factors that could impact your ability to drive safely. Weight, age and metabolism all play a part in alcohol tolerance, meaning it is virtually impossible to know if you are safe to drive.

“Even the smallest amount of alcohol will affect how you drive. The only way to be really safe is to avoid drinking altogether when you know you are taking the car.”

There are strict alcohol limits for drivers, but it’s impossible to say exactly how many drinks this equals – it’s different for each person. Any alcohol in your body can adversely affect how you drive.

The current limits in Scotland are:

• 22 mcg of alcohol in 100 ml of breath (the ‘breath limit’)
• 50 mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood (the ‘blood limit’)
• 67 mg of alcohol in 100 ml of urine (the ‘urine limit’)

This means that just one drink could put you over the legal limit for driving.