Around one in 10 drivers over alcohol limit on UK roads at Christmas, data shows

New data suggests drink-driving remains a significant problem on Britain’s roads over the Christmas period.

Freedom of Information data obtained by motoring company Cinch shows that in December of 2022, 2023, and 2024, police stopped and breathalysed around 53,700 drivers, with 5,247 found to be over the legal alcohol limit. This means roughly one in 10 motorists tested were driving under the influence during the festive season.

Rates varied across the country. In West Yorkshire, nearly a third of drivers tested were over the limit, while Suffolk recorded about 21 per cent and North Wales around 18 per cent.

The figures highlight the ongoing presence of drink-drivers on UK roads during a period of increased travel and festive celebrations. Police typically increase roadside testing over Christmas to deter and catch offenders, but the data shows that significant numbers of motorists continue to take the risk.

Ben Welham, motoring editor at Cinch, said:“Christmas is a critical time for drink-drive enforcement, and these figures demonstrate the volume of roadside testing carried out to protect road users. Even so, many drivers are still caught over the limit, sometimes at dangerously high levels.

“Looking at measures elsewhere, such as Scotland’s lower alcohol limit and zero-tolerance policies in parts of Europe, it’s worth considering whether simpler rules and clearer messaging could help reduce the risk even further.”