Reaching The Limit On Drink-Driving? Government Considers Zero-Tolerance Approach

"Our current drink-drive limit gives a false impression that it is acceptable to mix alcohol and driving - which couldn't be further from the truth. Decisive action is needed to end this blight on our roads and prevent the needless loss of life."1

Following a report published by the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC)2 arguing for the introduction of a zero-tolerance drink-driving limit in 2020, we consider the proposals and whether such a ban should be adopted in the UK.

To drink or not to drink?

The effects of alcohol on driving are well-known and can include:

reduced ability to judge speed and distance; false sense of confidence and increased tendency to take risks; reduced co-ordination and concentration; slower reaction times; and impaired vision and impaired perception of obstacles. Drivers convicted of "drink-driving" face a number of penalties depending on the seriousness of their offending. There is a minimum 12 month mandatory disqualification for all drivers who are caught driving above the legal alcohol limit. Drivers can also face an unlimited fine and a prison sentence.

The consequences of drink-driving can be fatal and the statistics themselves are shocking. Driving under the influence of alcohol is one of the four main killers on the road, alongside speeding, non-use of seatbelts and driver distraction3. Over 9,000 people were killed or injured in drink-drive accidents in 2016 in the UK4 and this is mirrored across other European countries, with 25% of all road deaths in the EU being alcohol-related5.

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit for drivers is 80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood (Scotland has a lower limit of 50 mg). Yet many campaigners argue that the UK's drink drive limit is shockingly high; in fact it is the...