🎄 SMARTALERT: Have a Safe Festive Season – Don’t Drink & Drive 🚗🎉 Holiday StatisticsOver the festive period (1 Dec – 1 Jan), 58,675 roadside breath or drug tests were conducted in the UK as part of Operation Limit. [news.npcc.police.uk]Nearly 10% of drivers tested positive for alcohol; 2,782 were arrested for drink or drug driving – nearly double previous years. [news.npcc.police.uk]In Great Britain, 19.6% of fatal collisions in 2023 involved alcohol or drugs. [gov.uk], [news.npcc.police.uk]Between 2012–2019, December was the second highest month for drink-driving crashes: ~4,150 collisions—resulting in ~6,020 deaths or serious injuries. [brake.org.uk]Annually, drink-driving contributes to 290–320 deaths, accounting for 17% of all road fatalities. [rac.co.uk], [brake.org.uk]
⚖️ Legal Penalties| Offence | Possible Consequences |
|---|
| Over the limit / driving unfit | Up to 6 months imprisonment, unlimited fine, 12-month ban (3 years for repeat offenders) [gov.uk] | | Being in charge (e.g., found drunk in a car) | Up to 3 months prison, ÂŁ2,500 fine, potential ban [gov.uk], [express.co.uk] | | Refusing a test | Same as over the limit: 6 months, unlimited fine, ban [gov.uk] | | Causing death while drink-driving | Life imprisonment, unlimited fine, 5-year ban, plus extended test [gov.uk] |
Additional Consequences: Record on driving licenceSoaring insurance costsEmployment problems, especially if driving is work-related
🚦 Festive Safety TipsNominate a dedicated driver before you start celebrating.Use taxis, rideshares, or public transport—pre-book if possible.Hosting a party? Offer alcohol‑free options and encourage responsible travel plans.Zero alcohol is always best if you're driving—even one drink can impair your reaction.
🙌 Final ReminderThis holiday season, celebrate safely – your choices matter.
Stay safe, stay responsible, and cherish the moments that matter. |
