Drink-Driving - What You Need To Know

Let's start with the obvious:
If you're driving, don't drink. If you're drinking, don't drive. But some are still muddled about the specifics on how much they can drink and still be able to hop in the car. In the interest of clearing things up, here's what you need to know.

What's the UK drink-drive limit?
In England and Wales, you're considered over the limit if you have over:
* 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood
* 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath
* 107mg of alcohol per 100ml of urine.
In Scotland, these limits are lower and more in line with other European countries:
* 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood
* 22 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath
* 67mg of alcohol per 100ml of urine.

What's this in real money?

As a rule of thumb, two pints of regular-strength lager or two small glasses of wine would put you over the limit. But this isn't a catch-all rule. Factors like your weight, sex, metabolism and how much you've eaten all contribute to how your body processes alcohol, so everyone has different limits.

Check your levels before driving

Though not a legal requirement in the UK, it's a sensible idea to keep a breathalyser kit in your car. They're a quick and easy way to let you know if you're over the limit. Keep in mind that you still might not be safe to drive the morning after. You might feel fine, but there still might be enough alcohol in your system to put you over the limit.

Alternatives to driving after having a drink

Luckily there are plenty of ways for you to get home after a few drinks. As well as public transport, sober friends and taxis, there are services like scooterman.co.uk who'll drive you and your car home safely. The chauffeur arrives in a foldable scooter that's stored in your boot while they're driving you home. They're also insured to drive your car so everything is above board. You migh...