RoSPA Press Office : Press Release
December 4, 2001
LIFE-LONG HANGOVER FACES CHRISTMAS DRINK DRIVERS
Drivers who risk having a Christmas drink and then get behind the steering wheel could pay for it for the rest of their lives, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents warned today.
As the Government launched its Christmas drink-drive campaign, RoSPA urged motorists to realise they were putting their own jobs and safety in jeopardy - and also risked wrecking the lives of other innocent people.
To combat the problem, the Society called for a tightening of the drink-drive laws and action by companies to play their part in cutting seasonal road accidents.
Kevin Clinton, RoSPA Head of Road Safety, said: “Motorists stupid enough to drink and drive have only themselves to blame if they get caught. Not only do they face a one-year ban, it could cost them their job if they need a car for work.
“If they have an accident, they could end up killing or maiming someone else. They will have to live with that on their conscience for the rest of their lives. Surely no celebration drink is worth those terrible consequences.”
RoSPA wants the Government to introduce:
- A reduction in the drink-drive limit from 80mg to 50mg
- Increased police powers to stop and test drivers
- More use of rehabilitation courses for offenders
The Society wants bosses to:
- Point out the dangers of drinking and driving to their staff
- Have policies banning drinking when in charge of a company vehicle
- Offer professional advice for employees with drink problems
“Companies who offer hospitality at Christmas must play a part in cutting the number of road casualties,” Kevin Clinton said. “Between 800 and 1,000 deaths on Britain’s roads each year are in some way linked with people driving for work. Employers must manage the risks faced by their employees who drive in their job. Risks rise for those who may be tempted to have a Christmas drink with a client.”
He urged people who were offered a drink when driving at Christmas to be firm and enjoy a soft drink instead. Those wanting to drink should plan alternative means of transport early so that they were sure they could find the lift or the taxi they needed rather than leave it until the night of their party.
