Get To Know The Dangers Of Drink Driving

Getting behind the wheel when you’ve had a little too much to drink is not cool. Not only does it increase your risk of having a nasty accident, you could also wind up in prison. The warnings around driving when you’re over the limit are stark but they are there to protect you and other people’s safety.
Learning to drive and becoming a competent driver is not just about knowing how to confidently get from A to B, it’s also about sticking to the hard rules and driving responsibly.

It’s important to be aware of the dangers of drink driving, which is why we’re running through them in this guide.

The Top 5 Dangers of Drink Driving

1. Causing death by careless driving – Get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and you could have an accident that results in the death of you, your passengers and/or other road users. These consequences would be difficult to live with, so before you think it’s a good idea to risk it, think again. Causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drink could result in up to 14 years’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine or a driving ban for a minimum of two years.
2. Driving or attempting to drive while above the legal limit – Even if you don’t cause an accident, if you’re caught over the limit you could face six months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine, or a driving ban for at least one year.
3. Increased car insurance costs – On top of the financial strain of paying a potential fine, you will also have to face a significant increase in your car insurance costs.
4. Employers may see your conviction on your licence – If you drive for work, your employer will be able to see your conviction on your licence. This could also impact your chances of getting future employment, particularly if your chosen sector involves driving.
5. Restrictions on travel – If you rely on a car to get to work, see your family or do your shopping, a driving ban could significantly impact your everyday life. Aside from that you may also be unable to travel to other countries, such as the USA.

Should you avoid drinking and driving altogether?

It’s hotly debated whether there should be a zero tolerance for drinking and driving. However, the current rules say it’s OK to have a minimal amount of alcohol in your system. To be savvy on the current drink drive limits in the UK you can visit the official Gov.UK website. It’s important to note that everyone is affected by alcohol differently. Simply put, the onus is on you to think twice before getting behind the wheel after drinking.

The bottom line

There are many scenarios where people don’t think about the consequences until it’s too late. A friend asks you to pick them up and you don’t want to let them down despite being over the limit, or you may even be peer pressured on a night out to drink even though you’re the designated driver. Also, if you had a lot to drink the night before you can still be over the limit the following morning.

The bottom line is that you should never give in to peer pressure and know that it’s always better to let someone down or fork out the money for a taxi or hotel than to risk losing your life, savings, freedom or job.

If you’re looking for a driving course in Peterborough that goes the extra mile, GoGoGo offers a 5 day driving course designed to get you up to speed in no time. To find out more, take a look at our website.