The vehicle financing comparison site LeaseLoco has warned drivers thinking about going to parties this Christmas to leave their car behind.
As many motorists prepare to celebrate the festive season with loved ones, many motoring experts have highlighted the dangers that can come with drink-driving.
Whilst getting caught behind the wheel of a driving seat whilst over the legal limit can result in fines and even a prison sentence, John Wilmot, CEO and founder of LeaseLoco, noted it could also lead to a driver being fired.
He advised: “Losing your job could be one of the biggest repercussions from a drink-driving conviction. Those who have a job that requires you to operate a vehicle, such as a HGV, a bus driver or you’re often on the road travelling to different locations by car, then a driving ban will naturally affect your ability to perform your duties.
“This could put you at risk of being dismissed from your role by your employer. Even if your role doesn’t require you to drive a vehicle, your job could still be on the line.”
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According to figures published by the Department for Transport, 224,000 motorists were breathalysed across the UK during 2021.
Whilst the majority of those stopped were found to be under the legal limit, LeaseLoco noted that 18 percent were over the drink-drive limit or refused to take the test.
Both cases can have serious consequences for drivers, including an unlimited fine, a potential prison sentence of up to six months, and a driving ban of at least one year.
The insurance price comparison website iCompario also highlighted a concerning study, in which one in 10 UK motorists admitted to drink-driving after attending a party.
According to a survey of 1,000 drivers, 18.39 percent of men and 9.69 percent of women said they had driven home from a party whilst drunk.
An additional 13 percent also stated that they have never driven whilst over the legal limit but got a lift from a friend who was.
Andy Davis, spokesperson for iCompario, urged drivers to plan ahead and always take a taxi or a lift from a designated driver.
He said: “These findings are a real eye-opener to how big an issue drink-driving remains in the UK, with the findings seeming to suggest that the festive period is particularly problematic, with millions of us catching up with colleagues and friends for a drink before the big day.
“Whilst many of us will be looking after our spending around this particular Christmas time, the extra expense on a taxi or organising a lift from a close one is absolutely the right thing to do. Many drink drivers convince themselves that they will be OK to drink-drive just once – but even one time is enough to jeopardise the lives of yourself and others and risk a custodial sentence.”
