8 December 2003
An advertising campaign is reminding people to stay sober when they drive over the festive period.
While drink-drive deaths have fallen dramatically over the past twenty years, there were an estimated 560 drink-drive fatalities last year – a six per cent increase over 2001.
The Government spends £3m each year on drink-drive related activity and penalties in UK are among the toughest in Europe.
Road Safety Minister David Jamieson said:
"Drink drivers are still killing people. Last year, one in six deaths on our roads was drink-drive related. The vast majority of motorists know the dangers and obey the law – but a minority of irresponsible and reckless drivers are ignoring it.
"If you are going out and enjoying yourself over Christmas – don’t turn your night into a nightmare – leave the car at home, and if you can’t use public transport, designate a non-drinking driver. Remember that you could still be over the limit in the morning after a good night out."
The maximum penalties for driving or attempting to drive when above the legal limit or unfit through drink are six months imprisonment plus a fine of up to £5,000 and a ban for at least 12 months – or three years if convicted twice in 10 years.
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