Dying for a drink?

Road safety charity the IAM is offering weekly motoring tips from Britain's top advanced driver, Peter Rodger. This week, he is giving advice on avoiding the consequences of intoxication behind the wheel this Christmas time. 

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: "This time of year brings with it brandy pudding, mulled wine and Christmas parties. If you're heading out for a few drinks, make sure you have planned your journey home before you set off."

Rodger offers tips on driving over the Christmas period:

• Don't try and calculate whether or not you have consumed enough to tip you over the drink-drive limit.
• Drinks poured at home are usually larger than pub measures – don't underestimate how much you've had.
• If you drive to a party and drink more than you expected to, don't risk it. Book yourself a taxi or arrange for a friend or family member to collect you.
• If you are involved in a road accident you will be breathalysed – don't risk it, or somebody else's mistake could become your problem.
• A drinking session the night before can easily put you over the legal limit the following morning. Organise alternative travel plans for the next day.
• If you know someone has been drinking, don't let them give you a lift or drive home.

Rodger said: "A swift couple after work or a glass of wine with the staff lunch may seem harmless, but could have serious consequences if you get behind the wheel. It is not only about your safety, but the safety of other road users too.  It's not worth the risk, so choose one or the other – to drink or to drive."

Mike McAdam, founder of drink drive campaign 'Don't be that someone' said: "It's important that people of all ages, including 14-18 year olds, are fully aware about the dangers and serious consequences drink driving can have on individuals, families and whole communities."

To help drivers stay safe this winter, the IAM has launched a new website, drivingadvice.org.uk, with traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.

Tips cover rain, snow, ice, fog and wind – everything you can expect in a typically unpredictable British winter. Check it out before you travel.