The festive season is a time for celebration, but it’s also a time to take extra care on the roads. Drink- and drug-driving remain leading causes of accidents, so staying responsible and vigilant is crucial to keeping everyone safe.
Alcohol and the Morning After
Christmas celebrations often include a few drinks, but remember, alcohol can stay in your system much longer than you might think. Even after a full night’s sleep, you could still be over the limit the next day. In 2022, 22% of drivers killed on UK roads were over the legal alcohol limit.
Alcohol impairs your reaction times, coordination, and concentration. Take extra care driving the morning after, and be aware of other road users—some may not be as cautious. Staying alert could help avoid accidents caused by impaired drivers.
Drugs and Driving
Illegal drugs like cannabis or cocaine can seriously impair your ability to drive, and they can stay in your system for days. In 2022, impairing drugs were detected in 19% of drivers killed and 30% of those tested. Even if you feel fine, drugs may still affect your reaction times, decision-making, and perception.
It’s not just illegal drugs—some prescription and over-the-counter medications can also make driving unsafe. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist if you’re taking medication, especially for conditions like pain, hayfever, anxiety, or insomnia. Mixing drugs with alcohol can amplify their effects, so be extra mindful this festive season.
Why It Matters
The risks are real: nearly 6% of drivers involved in collisions in 2022 tested over the alcohol limit, and the actual figure may be higher as not all drivers are tested. Recreational drug use is also widespread, with government surveys showing 2.5% of people using cocaine and 7.5% using cannabis in the past year.
Stay Safe
We know our drivers are always fit for work, but during the Christmas season, it’s important to stay extra vigilant on the roads, as other drivers may not be as cautious.
You can find more information here, including legal limits of medication drugs:
VDT – Drink-Driving
VDT – Drug-Drivng
