IAM warns of New Year drink-driving

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Motorists are being warned of the dangers of driving too soon the morning after drinking alcohol over the New Year period.

With heavy snow and freezing temperatures making for difficult driving conditions, the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) reminded drivers to take extra care.

It also warned that traffic in towns and city centres will be heavier than normal as people head to the New Year sales at the shops.

The IAM said drivers may unknowingly still be over the legal limit after a night of drinking, making the risks on the road even greater.

The charity said that while most people are well-educated about the risks involved in drink-driving, many people aren't aware of the risk of driving the morning after.

It can take as long as 12 hours for four pints or three large glasses of wine to leave a person's system, the charity said, which means that if a person hasn't stopped drinking until 1am, they will not be safe to drive until after lunchtime the next day.

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: "The current weather combined with alcohol and driving is a potent recipe for a cocktail of problems.

"The additional challenges of driving on snow and ice make the normal messages about not drinking and driving all the more important this New Year.

"The morning after effect has the potential to catch out many shoppers as well as those returning home after an extended break."

Copyright © Press Association 2009

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