There are plenty of scenarios where a couple of drinks can lead to a few too many. But while the risks of getting behind the wheel when you’re over the limit are well-known, what about the morning after?
What’s the science behind it?
There is no reliable formula for to decide if you’re safe to drive the next morning after drinking.
Alcohol may leave the body at roughly one unit per hour, but this varies significantly on your age, sex, height, weight, and various other factors. Things like coffee, sleep, fresh air and a shower do not speed up the process.
If you’re in any doubt, don’t drive!
Do drivers know the risks?
We surveyed a number of drivers and 36% said they just go by how they feel the morning after drinking to decide if they’re fit to drive. And a third said they trust their own judgement over official advice.
This shows drivers are relying too heavily on their instincts, rather than what’s legal and safe.
What are the consequences?
If alcohol is still in your system the morning after drinking, it can be seriously dangerous to drive. And the consequences are the same as drink driving the night before.
In England and Wales, driving or attempting to drive over the limit can lead to up to 6 months in prison, an unlimited fine and a driving ban of at least one year.
Refusing to provide a specimen can lead to similar penalties, and a conviction can push up your insurance costs for years.
Don’t drink and drive the morning after
Drink driving is never worth the risk. Not only is it dangerous for you and other drivers, a drink driving conviction can seriously impact your life and affect the cost of your car insurance.
Kevin Mead, Head of Aviva Motor, says: "The reality is that there is no set number of units that can guarantee someone will be fit to drive the morning after drinking alcohol. Even if two people consume the same amount, they can still process it very differently.”
So, have fun and be merry, but make sure you play it safe the morning after.
