Every year more than half a million breath tests are carried out and on average 100,000 are found to be positive.Driving or attempting to drive whilst above the legal limit or unfit through drink carries a maximum penalty of 6 months' imprisonment, a fine of up to £5,000, 3 to 11 points on your driving licence (if you do not get disqualified) and a minimum 12 months driving ban.

A conviction leading to an endorsement for a drink-driving offence remains on a driving licence for 11 years, so it is 11 years before a convicted driver will have a "clean" licence again.

Just being in charge of a vehicle whilst over the legal limit or unfit through drink could result in 3 months' imprisonment plus a fine of up to £2,500 and a driving ban. That means the driver simply has to be in the vehicle and in possession of the vehicle of car keys – the car doesn’t even need to be running or moving.

Refusing a breath test - If you are convicted of refusing to take a breath test the penalty for refusing to provide a specimen of breath, blood or urine for analysis is a maximum 6 months' imprisonment, up to £5000 fine and may lead to a driving ban of at least 12 months.

Causing death by careless driving - If you are facing conviction for causing death by careless driving while under the influence of drink or drugs you may face a maximum penalty of up to 14 years in prison, plus a minimum driving ban of 2 years and a requirement to pass an extended driving test before you are able to drive legally again.

If you are convicted of drink driving...

• A drink driving conviction will lead to a criminal record – which may influence your ability to apply for certain jobs
• You will not be allowed to drive a motor vehicle for a least a year.
• Your job or employment may rely on you using a motor vehicle – if you are unable to fulfil your job role your employers may have to release you.
• Your car insurance costs will definitely go up and you may find yourself unable to get any insurance at all.
• You may have to sell your car at a reduced rate.
• You will have difficulty renting or hiring a car or motor vehicle for at least the next 10 years

Drink Driving Potential Defences -In certain circumstances, even when the amount of alcohol in your blood is above the legal limit, there may be potential defences. CM solicitors are specialists in alcohol related drinking and driving offences and have given legal advice to many clients facing an immediate drink driving ban. Carter Moore has specialist drink driving solicitors on hand 24 hours a day who will provide you with free initial advice. Call us now on 08458 737 333.

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