The need for drink driver insurance seems to be at its highest as we move into December. Records show that alcohol consumption in the United Kingdom can increase by a third or more during the month in line with the Christmas period, as well as people seeing in the New Year in style. It is inevitable that some motorists will choose to get behind the wheel despite suspecting they may be over the limit, and it’s no surprise that it happens more often at this time of year. The police have been cracking down on such practices during these times in particular, and there is likely a spike in the number of drivers receiving a ban over the festive period.
With bans for driving under the influence starting at a minimum of 12 months (unless you are offered a rehabilitation course to reduce your ban), we find a number of drivers needing to get themselves back on the road in December, or have their renewals coming around again.
What constitutes being over the limit?
The current limits are shown in the table below. As you can see, Scotland has lower limits than the rest of the UK.
| Level of alcohol | England, Wales & NI | Scotland |
|---|---|---|
| Micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath | 35 | 22 |
| Milligrammes per 100 millilitres of blood | 80 | 50 |
| Milligrammes per 100 millilitres of urine | 107 | 67 |
Extract from https://www.gov.uk/drink-drive-limit
It is difficult to determine how many drinks is likely to take you over the limit, with a number of factors determining how your body processes alcohol, ranging from age, weight and gender, the type of drinks you’re consuming, and even the level of stress you’ve been under lately. Because of this, you may even be over the limit driving the next morning, even if you chose a sensible way to get home the night before.
What are the penalties?
Penalties vary on a case-by-case basis following a hearing in court.
This can include a prison sentence, a fine up to an unlimited amount, and/or a ban from driving. Repeat offenders can expect to face larger penalties.
How can I stay safe?
- Where possible, arrange a lift home at the end of your night, or agree with your friends to take it in turns to be the designated driver
- Pre-booking your taxi home will probably be cheaper than trying to find one on the night
- Plan your next day – Try to avoid driving at all the day after, allowing enough time for alcohol to leave your system. If you do have to drive, try and leave it for later in the afternoon
How can we help?
GSI Insurance Services (Southern) Ltd are a specialist insurance intermediary that have spent over a decade helping convicted drivers get back on the road with affordable policies, and understand that one mistake shouldn’t mean you have to pay way over the odds.
We have discounts negotiated with the insurers that can help you, and with Christmas right around the corner, every penny counts.
Give us a call on 0800 612 9376, or fill in an online quote on our website to start making a saving!
