Drink driving prosecutions up by a third as more motorists risk £5,000 fine – ‘Disappointing’
The number of motorists prosecuted for drink-driving in Scotland has surged by a third, according to a new report with experts warning of spikes during the Christmas period.
The report found that 4,846 drivers were taken to court for driving under the influence in 2022/2023, compared with 3,680 in the previous year – marking a significant 32 per cent increase.
The stark rise in prosecutions comes as Police Scotland launched its annual Christmas drink and drug drive campaign, warning drivers to be extra vigilant during the festive period.
The figures also revealed that drink-driving cases in Scotland are now 12 per cent higher than they were a decade ago, despite increased public awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence.
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Of the cases brought to court, 4,619 resulted in convictions – representing a remarkably high conviction rate of 95 per cent.
Scotland maintains some of the strictest drink-driving limits in the UK, with a maximum of 22 microgrammes of alcohol per 100ml of breath permitted.
Under UK law, drivers face serious penalties if caught breaking the drinking limit, this includes a minimum 12-month driving ban and potential fines of up to £5,000.
Offenders could also face up to six months in prison, with the conviction remaining on their licence for 11 years.
Police can conduct roadside breath tests if they suspect a driver is impaired by alcohol, if a traffic offence has been committed, or following an accident.
The rise in prosecutions reflects a concerning increase in drink-driving casualties on Scottish roads. The number of deaths caused by drink drivers saw a dramatic rise, with 30 fatalities recorded in 2022 compared to 10 deaths in 2021.
Overall casualties increased by nearly 50 per cent, with 310 people injured in drink-driving incidents compared to 210 the previous year.
Hunter Abbott, managing director of personal breathalyser firm AlcoSense said: “Research shows that, even at the reduced Scottish limit, you are five times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than when sober.”
Abbott added: “It’s disappointing to note that prosecutions are also 12 per cent higher than a decade ago, despite increased awareness of the dangers of drink driving.”
He pointed out that Scotland’s lower legal limit, introduced 10 years ago, makes it more likely for drivers who have consumed alcohol to breach the law.
A recent study revealed that four in 10 Scottish motorists admitted to consuming more alcohol during the Covid-19 lockdown period.
Police Scotland warned that even one drink can put drivers over the limit, particularly during the festive season.
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In response to the report, police are now urging the public to report suspected drink drivers, which can be done by calling 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously.