The review from Sir Peter North has suggested that lowering the legal limit from 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood to 50mg per 100ml would be a life saving move. This would actually put us in line with most of the rest of Europe; but including the 12 month ban, it would actually push us in to the harshest category for punishments! He has also suggested that the 12 month mandatory driving ban should extend to the new lower limit of 50mg.
The report suggests that new research indicates around 7% of UK road deaths could be prevented in the first year through a reduction in the drink-drive limit. This could potentially almost double in a further six years. Sir Peter North stated “With a blood alcohol level between my proposed new limit of 50mg per 100ml and the current 80mg per 100ml limit, a driver has a six times greater risk of road death than a non-drinking driver. Having considered the issues carefully and considered views from all quarters, I not only believe that it is right to reduce the limit, but that the public is ready for a lower limit. It is time to give them what they want.” Quite a profound statement.
But would such a change in legislation really make a significant difference in reducing unnecessary accidents on Britain’s roads? According to Transport Minister Philip Hammond, perhaps not – his views remain that persistent drink drivers would be less likely to be deterred by a change in the legal limit he suggests that the way forward is by increasing the chances of being caught. The government will have to carefully consider the evidence to make their decision.
We should all know the dangers of drink driving, and we should all be aware that alcohol consumption does have a negative impact on our driving capabilities. Personally, I am of the opinion that such a small change is less likely to make a difference. I agree more with the Transport Ministers statement above; the way forward is to increase the likelihood that a drink driver is caught as a primary deterrent. The punishments are rightly severe – so deterring drink drivers more would have a greater impact.
So, what happens if you are the victim of a drink driver who is found to be over the limit? You are eligible to claim compensation for your suffering. Drink driving seriously endangers the lives of road users and pedestrians; and it still amazes me that people risk their lives and others lives in going over the limit.
If you have been a victim in a road accident that wasn’t your fault, speak to an expert personal injury lawyer for the best advice and representation on claiming for compensation.