Between 120 and 330 people were killed in crashes in 2017 with at least one driver over the limit according to the Department for Transport figures. This represents 16% of all road deaths and it is estimated that 290 deaths from road accidents in 2017 were from a drink-drinking incident were one driver was over the limit.
An estimated 8,660 people were killed or injured when at least one driver was over the drink-drive limit. This is a reduction of 4% from 9,040 in 2016.
The estimate of kills in 2017 are based on coroners’ and procurators’ reports for 28% of drivers or riders who were killed in road traffic accidents in 2017 in addition to breath tests taken at the scene. The final figures will be posted in August 2019 showing the exact number of fatalities.
The drink-drive death numbers has fallen over time but it does keep going up and down with the 2017 numbers the highest since 2009. The number of drink-drive accidents fell by 6% to 5,730 in 2017.
The Scottish Government reduced their alcohol limit for drivers from 80mg per 100 millilitres of blood to 50mg in December 2014, but the legal level in the rest of the UKremains 80mg.
A DfT spokesman said: “Drink-driving is absolutely deplorable and those who do it not only put their own lives at risk but other people’s too.
“The government is working with industry to develop new roadside breath tests, meaning drink-drivers do not have the chance to sober up before being tested, while the Think! Mates Matter campaign had the biggest impact on young drivers’ attitudes to drink-driving in a decade.
“We are also looking at how to make our roads safer as part of our upcoming road safety action plan.”
RAC road safety spokesman Pete Williams said: “This is a serious cause for alarm and reflects a worrying change in attitude by a number of drivers who are prepared to risk their own life and that of others by drinking and driving.
“Anyone who has lost a loved-one in a drink-driving accident will testify to how devastating and needless this is.”
He added: “With the reduced number of roads policing officers, it appears more drivers are thinking they can get away with drinking and driving.”
Josh Harris, director of campaigns at road safety charity Brake, said: “Our current drink-drive limit gives a false impression that it is acceptable to mix alcohol and driving, which couldn’t be further from the truth.
“Even very small amounts of alcohol dramatically affect your ability to drive safely.
“Decisive action is needed to end this blight on our roads and prevent the needless loss of life.
“Brake is calling for the Government to implement an effective zero-tolerance drink-drive limit, making clear to drivers that not a drop of alcohol is safe.”
