Motorists 'must not drink and drive'

Individuals who flout the law and get behind the wheel of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances are highly irresponsible and are taking their own lives and those of other road users into their own hands, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has argued.

According to data compiled by the Association of Chief Police Officers, 7,124 motorists across the UK were arrested during December 2011 as a result of failing drink and drug-driving tests, with 4.55 per cent of those who were breathalysed being found guilty of being over the legal limit for alcohol.

Kevin Clinton, RoSPA's head of road safety, said: "It is extremely disappointing but sadly not surprising that, despite three decades of drink-drive education and enforcement, thousands of drivers were caught drinking and driving."

He argued that drink and drug-driving can be deadly, both for the driver of the vehicle and for other road users, with 250 people killed in drinking and driving incidents in 2010. Furthermore, more than 1,200 were seriously injured as a result of this type of offence.

It is therefore important that all motorists are aware of their responsibilities when they get behind the wheel and do not touch a drop of alcohol or any other illegal substance, as it is not just their own life that they could be damaging.

The Institute for Advanced Motorists (IAM) also commented on the figures last week, arguing the number of young people found guilty of this type of offence is on the rise and that it is imperative the message gets through that just one drink can be enough to put an individual over the legal safe limit.

Neil Greig, IAM director of policy and research, stated: "This suggests that [a] lack of education and confusion over safe limits in today's drinking culture of huge glasses and ever-changing alcoholic mixes may be a key factor in drink driving."

For an expert, professional service and the best value for money cover, contact the convicted driver insurance team at Performance Direct.

We search our panel of leading underwriters to find you the best policy

Why choose Performance Direct?

  1. The latest digital systems. Our customers enjoy all the advantages of the digital world. We offer excellent web and app-based insurance services, including a fast, easy-to-use quote engine and automated customer services allowing hassle-free access to documents and information.

  2. The peace of mind of a Chartered Broker. Everything we do is backed by a team of skilled, experienced insurance professionals. We’re a Chartered Insurance Broker, a family company with a proud 40-year history, so we’re bound by a personal and professional code to deliver the best service for our clients.

  1. We’re independent. Because we’re not tied to any brand or product, we can search the car insurance market to get you the best policies­—from third party policies to fully comprehensive cover. Whenever you ask for a new or a renewal quote, our systems search a panel of up to 100 leading UK underwriters to ensure you get the lowest price and the best policy.

  2. We’re on your side. If you need to make a claim, because we’re completely independent, we work with you to sort everything out and to make sure your claim is paid. Whether you need to sort out a hire car or a new windscreen, our claims service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

  3. Here for you. Your Online Insurance Account, support features, and on-line quotations are available 24/7, and our office is open 6 days a week.

Combining the advantages of the latest technology with real world experience, Performance Direct promises the lowest prices with the most efficient service.