MOTORISTS in Berkshire are being urged to take extra care this Christmas after new data revealed they are 50% more likely to be breath tested in December than at any other time of year.
Figures obtained by personal breathalyser firm AlcoSense show that Thames Valley Police carried out 1,461 roadside breath tests last December – compared with an average of 945 in other months.
Of those stopped in December, 151 drivers were found to be over the legal limit – meaning over one in ten of motorists failed the test.
Research continues to show the dangers of driving with alcohol in your system; the risk of being involved in a fatal collision is around 13 times higher at the current drink-drive limit than when sober.
Across the whole of last year Thames Valley Police administered 11,861 breath tests – the third highest of the 43 police forces in England and Wales.
A total of 1,721 motorists proved positive–an overall failure rate of nearly 15% .
National statistics underline the scale of the issue. The latest Department for Transport figures show 260 people were killed in drink-drive crashes across Britain – higher than a decade ago. Drunk driving accounts for 16% of all road fatalities.
A total of 6,310 people were injured in collisions involving a driver over the limit.
Those caught driving over the legal alcohol limit in the UK, the consequences are severe. You could face a minimum 12‑month driving ban, an unlimited fine and even up to six months in prison.
Causing death by careless driving while over the limit carries a maximum sentence of 14 years in jail.
A drink‑drive conviction also results in a criminal record, significantly higher insurance premiums and potential restrictions on employment and international travel.
Hunter Abbott, Managing Director of AlcoSense Laboratories, said: “December is always the peak month for roadside checks due to office parties, nights out and an overall rise in social drinking.
“Police know this, which is why roadside testing surges at this time of year.”
“People often underestimate how long alcohol stays in the body. For example, drinking four pints of medium-strong beer or four large glasses of wine in an evening can take up to 14 hours to fully clear.
“Many motorists are caught out the following morning without realising they’re still over the limit.
“Using a personal breathalyser before driving can give reassurance that you’re safe and legal.”
