Banned driver warns others

Motorists are urged not to take a risk the day after the night before

A woman who was banned from driving after failing a breathalyser test 12 hours after a party has warned other motorists about the dangers of drink driving.

The driver, who wishes to be known as Samantha, was twice the legal limit when she was breathalysed on her way to work earlier this year in Leicestershire.

She had been drinking what she describes as 'copious' amounts at her birthday party the previous evening.

Samantha was banned from driving for two-and-a-half-years and put on 12 months probation.

A lot of people out there don't realise the next day that they are still over the limit Samantha

She has come forward with her story in the hope it will make others aware of the dangers, especially during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

She told the BBC she was distracted by something and crashed her car - rolling it over.

She said: "When I was in the station I just thought I would get a fine and points on my licence; to get the ban and to be on probation totally changed my outlook, I was staggered,"

Samantha lost her job after her conviction because she needed her car to get to work.

She said: "I had to lie to the people I worked for and those I work with now as to why I don't drive anymore."

'Just not worth it'

It has affected Samantha's home life, and put a big strain on her relationship - she and her partner split up for a time because of the ban.

Since appearing at magistrate's court, she has had to attend a drinking awareness course and is pleading with other people not to do the same.

"A lot of people out there don't realise the next day that they are still over the limit.

"They've been to bed, had something to eat and had some coffee and feel fine, but it's just not worth it."