The Festive Party Season in Numbers: Drink & Drug Driving
Over the Christmas period many people will take the opportunity to see friends, family and celebrate the year. These celebrations can take many forms, but more often than not involve a drink or two. In fact during December alone 600 million units of alcohol are consumed in the UK which is 41% higher than any other time of year. This brings huge implications to health and safety with excess drinking and partying contributing to accidents on the road.
In December 2015 1888 drug screen tests were carried out across England and Wales and nearly 50% were positive. Research in 2015 by co-op insurance showed that 744,000 drivers will knowingly drink and drive at Christmas, giving the following reasons:
Top 10 Drink Driving Excuses (Reference)
| Reason | % using this reason |
| It won’t harm anyone | 31% |
| A taxi is too expensive | 28% |
| I don’t want to walk home | 25% |
| I’ve done it before | 20% |
| The roads will be quiet when I drive | 18% |
| Alcohol doesn’t affect me | 18% |
| I can handle my drink | 13% |
| Alcohol doesn’t affect my driving | 10% |
| I know other people do it | 7% |
| I don’t want to rely on anyone else | 7% |
At Christmas everyone is entitled to enjoy themselves, but should be able to do so without putting themselves or others at risk. Some very basic steps can be taken to avoid driving your car whilst under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol:
. Be responsible
. Choose a designated driver
. Leave at the same time as your designated driver
. If there is no designated driver, leave your car at home and arrange a lift
. Make sure your phone is charged in case you need an emergency taxi / lift
. If someone in your group has been drinking / taking drugs and planning to drive, take their keys
Randox Testing Services
At Randox Testing Services we believe that when it comes to driving, the safest thing to do is not to consume any drugs or alcohol and then drive. This is why we have taken steps to raise awareness of the problem and help offer practical advice. If you have any queries please contact testingservices@randox.com
From everyone at Randox Testing Services we would like to take this opportunity to wish you a happy, healthy and safe Christmas and New Year.