Almost 100 drivers a day caught drink-driving over last three years

Alarmingly, individuals aged 25 to 39 are the most frequently penalised for drink-driving.

In fact, around 48,000 drivers in this age bracket have received endorsements, followed closely by 40,000 drivers aged 40 to 65.

In contrast, only 15,000 drivers aged 17 to 24 were penalised, and a mere 3,000 over-65s received points on their licence between 2022 and 2024, according to data obtained from the DVLA via a Freedom of Information request.

Drivers caught over the limit face automatic licence revocation, potential imprisonment, and unlimited fines.

Also, the DR20 endorsement for drink-driving remains on a driving licence for 11 years, and a repeat offence within a decade triggers a longer disqualification period.

Research by IAM RoadSmart estimates the total financial burden of a drink-driving conviction could reach £80,000.

This figure includes a loss of income, legal fees, driving fines, alternate transport cost, and increased insurance costs in the future.

Shockingly, it also marks an increase of 15% compared to their findings five years ago.

Tragically, fatalities linked to drink-driving have climbed over the past decade, peaking in 2022 at the highest level in 13 years. This trend has raised alarms about the effectiveness of current road safety measures.

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Following the release of the latest Government statistics showing the number of drink-drive fatalities is up by 7% since 2013, RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said: “These disturbing figures show the twin evils of driving under the influence of drink and drugs are behind a frightening number of lives lost on the UK’s roads every year.

“It's simply unacceptable that an estimated 260 people a year lose their lives as a result of drink-drivers. It remains the case that the proportion of road deaths where drink-driving was a cause is at a similar level to the late 1980s. Drugs, too, are playing an increasing role in fatalities and are now behind a record number of fatal collisions.

“A new approach to tackling these repugnant crimes is desperately needed. We hope this will be a key part of the Government’s forthcoming road safety strategy.

“We've consistently been calling for a change in approach when it comes to reducing alcohol-related road deaths, as it’s clear the status quo isn’t working. RAC research shows drivers are supportive of courts being given the powers to mandate the fitting of alcohol interlocks (‘alcolocks’) to offenders’ vehicles to prevent them driving drunk again. This has the potential to reduce drink-drive casualties, especially among habitual offenders. 

“Since 2022 we have urged the Government to consider mandating all new vehicles have interfaces that allow alcolocks to be fitted easily. We are also supportive of police being given the powers to immediately disqualify any driver who fails a drink or drugs test at the roadside."