Motorists May Still Be Over Limit The Morning After

Nearly one in five motorists have driven the morning after a night of drinking, despite knowing that they could have been over the legal limit, a survey by AA/Populus has found.

Although around half of drivers say they try to avoid drink-driving by agreeing a designated driver before a night out, a worrying proportion still drive the following morning when they could still be under the influence.

People in London were the least likely to nominate a designated driver, but were the most likely to use public transport or taxis instead. Meanwhile, women were more likely than men to agree a designated driver before going out.

"Alcohol levels in the body can still mean that drivers are over the limit the following morning and we want to ensure that people are fully aware of this when they are making the decision whether or not to get behind the wheel," said AA President Edmund King.

The poll follows a survey by Motorpoint which found that two-thirds of British drivers think the drink-drive limit in England should be lowered, as it recently was in Scotland.

Expert Opinion

Our work on behalf of those seriously injured in road traffic collisions, as well as the families of those killed in such incidents, means we have seen numerous examples of the huge consequences that drink-driving can have on so many lives. <br/> <br/>"It is vital that all motorists – particularly across the festive period – recognise their responsibilities when it comes to keeping themselves and others on the roads. It is also important they remember that driving the morning after a heavy night may still mean they are over the limit. People need to take extra care when deciding whether to get behind the wheel." Colin Ettinger - Consultant