Many drivers have got behind the wheel of a vehicle despite a night of heavy drinking, warns new research by the AA.
A total of 19 per cent of motorists admitted they had driven the morning after a big night, even though they knew they may have been over the legal drink driving limit.
The current AA Christmas anti-drink driving campaign is hoping to ensure that everyone is aware of the dangers of driving while intoxicated – even if it is several hours since a drink was consumed.
This year the AA has teamed up with drinks brand Jameson Irish Whiskey to help highlight the risks, in a bid to get the message over to more people.
It is hoped the digital-focused campaign will reach out to men aged between 18 and 35, to prevent unnecessary accidents over the festive period.
Denis O’Flynn, managing director of Pernod Ricard UK, said: "This year we are using the Jameson brand to grab the attention of young adults who may be tempted to drink-drive. It’s clear that a lot of people are making the right choices but often they don’t realise the dangers of driving in the morning after a night of festivities."
The AA survey also revealed many drivers think they can offset the drinking over the previous night by various tactics, including drinking lots of water or having a full English breakfast.
Edmund King, AA president, explained: "There are many urban myths and rituals used to try to counter hang-overs and reduce blood alcohol levels but the only safe method is to drink less or give adequate time for the alcohol to leave your system. The same penalties, such as a minimum year’s ban, for drink driving apply the morning after as they do the night before."
Posted by Perry Murray.