Drink Driving Warning

Police tell drivers there is 'no safe limit' ahead of proposed changes to drink drive limits.

Senior officers warn an extra 35 drivers a week across Scotland could lose their licence over the festive period, following the proposed introduction of new drink drive limits next month.

The warning comes ahead of proposed changes to the levels of alcohol permitted with changes due to take effect from December 5th. Later this month, a public information campaign will be launched ahead of the changes which will also be followed by Police Scotland’s festive drink drive campaign.

Chief Superintendent Iain Murray, head of roads policing, said:

"Drink driving causes significant impact on families and our local communities not just at Christmas but throughout the year and the proposed changes send a clear message that there is no safe alcohol limit for drivers.

"We know from our figures that we can anticipate an extra 35 drivers a week losing their licence over the festive period following the changes to the limit. Our advice to all drivers is don't risk it. Even at the new levels you will still be three times more likely to die in a collision than without any alcohol at all."

Since 1 April this year, more than 3,317 people have been caught driving while under the influence of drink or drugs. Last Christmas, 434 drivers were caught driving while under the influence of drink and over a hundred more received warnings.

Ch Supt Murray added:

"Sadly there are still too many drivers willing to risk their own lives and the lives of others. We welcome the proposed changes to the law which will help keep people safe and send a clear message to drivers about the risks."

Causing death by careless driving whilst under the influence of drink and/or drugs will result in a minimum 2 year driving ban and up to 14 years in prison with an unlimited fine.