The current legal drink-drive limits are 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath, and the equivalent of 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood – but the UK government may be about to change these in England and Wales.
Any reduction in these figures would be the first time they’ve been changed in around 50 years. The UK government is aiming to bring their current legal limits in line with Scotland, which changed its laws in 2014.
So, what are the changes? Our drink driving solicitors are here to help explain everything.
What are the proposed new drink driving laws?
The UK government is keen to lower the legal drink driving limits in England and Wales to fall in line with Scotland’s current legislation.
The proposed changes would reduce the limits to 22mg per 100ml of breath and 50mg per 100ml of blood – down from 35mg and 80mg, respectively.
The government’s Road Safety Strategy is expected to be announced in the coming weeks and will likely contain the formal proposal and timeline for the change to come into place.
Once proposed, official consultation should take place as early as the end of 2025 into the start of 2026, with possible legislative change early in 2026.
How does this affect drink consumption?
These proposed rule changes mean even light consumption of alcohol could put certain people at risk of driving a vehicle while over the legal limit.
The alleged rule change may make people think twice about having a drink before getting behind the wheel, as stricter laws will lead to a higher chance of being prosecuted.
Even one pint of beer or one glass of wine may be enough to tip some people over the legal drink driving limit, putting them in a lot of trouble.
Are there any more proposed drink driving law changes?
As of yet, there are no other proposed changes to the current drink driving laws, tests or punishments. This means that, should the reduced legal limit come into place, the same tests – breath, blood, etc. – and the same level/type of punishments will still be in place.
Have you been caught drink driving?
Have you recently been caught drink driving and would like some guidance or defence? If so, you’re in the right place. At M.A.J. Law, we have helped thousands of individuals in their cases after being charged or accused of drink driving.
We have an exceptional track record of defending individuals in Magistrates’ Court hearings all over London, and can provide fantastic legal services for you, too.
To find out how our team of legal professionals can help you, contact us today.
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