Nearly 100 Drivers a Day Caught Drink-Driving in Britain, Figures Reveal

Almost 100 motorists are caught driving under the influence every day in Britain, according to new figures released by road safety charity IAM RoadSmart.

Data from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), obtained through a Freedom of Information request, shows that between 2022 and 2024 more than 108,000 people received drink-driving endorsements on their licences — averaging 99 offenders daily.

The statistics indicate that drivers aged 25 to 39 were the most likely to break the law, accounting for 48,000 cases. A further 40,000 offenders were aged 40 to 65, while 15,000 were between 17 and 24 years old. Just 3,000 offenders were over 65.

IAM RoadSmart has warned of the financial burden that convictions can place on drivers, particularly those whose jobs rely on being behind the wheel. The charity estimates the cost could reach £80,000 when lost earnings, legal fees, increased insurance premiums, and fines are considered.

In the UK, drink-driving typically results in a minimum 12-month driving ban. Offenders may also face fines or imprisonment, although bans can sometimes be reduced if drivers complete a rehabilitation course.

Figures from the Department for Transport (DfT) show that in 2023 around 260 people died in crashes where at least one driver was over the legal limit, with a further 1,600 sustaining serious injuries.

The government is now considering lowering the drink-drive limit in England and Wales as part of a wider road safety strategy. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is reportedly examining a reduction from 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath to 22 micrograms — aligning the threshold with Scotland and most European countries.

IAM RoadSmart’s director of policy and standards, Nicholas Lyes, described drink-driving as “dangerously reckless,” warning that the real consequences are only recognised once offenders face the financial and personal costs. He added:

“Lowering the limit and boosting enforcement would help send the message that having none for the road is best.”

A DfT spokesperson said the government remained committed to road safety and highlighted its Think! campaign, which targets high-risk groups such as young men. They also confirmed that road safety measures, which have not been updated in over a decade, are currently under review.