'Morning after' drink-drive alert

Drivers caught over the alcohol limit in the morning could face a lengthy ban

Four out of five motorists suspect they have driven while over the alcohol limit on the morning after a night out or party, according to the AA.

Almost half of more than 11,000 respondents in an online Populus poll said they knew people who drink-drive.

With new year celebrations approaching, AA president Edmund King is warning that drivers may end up over the limit on New Year's Day without realising.

He said they could face a minimum one year ban if caught.

People aged over 65 were least likely to think about whether they may be over the drink-drive limit in the morning.

Those aged 25 to 34 were most likely to consider their alcohol levels before driving.

Mr King said drivers should adopt the motto: "If in doubt, don't take the car out".

The survey also found that 47% of those questioned knew someone who drinks and drives, and that 67% would inform police if they found out someone was getting behind the wheel having drunk excessively.

'Irresponsible'

Mr King said: "On most occasions the majority of drivers will not be over the drink-drive limit the morning after.

"However, if someone has been to a party drinking into the early hours and gets little sleep they might be over the limit the next morning.

"Most would not be blatantly drink-driving but the penalties of a minimum one year's ban are likely to be the same."

Ch Insp Donald McMillan, head of road policing for Central Scotland Police, described the findings as "extremely worrying".

"We have been concentrating on 'the morning after' issue very heavily during this year's drink-drive campaign," he said.

Of the AA survey, he added: "This just gives me more incentive to work towards stamping out this irresponsible behaviour which causes people to die and suffer life-changing injuries on our roads."