Drivers warned as 'incredibly dangerous' practice puts motorists at risk of £2,500 fine on New Year's Eve

With celebrations for 2026 set to be in full swing, and taxi fares expected to soar, some Britons may be tempted to drive themselves.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is reportedly looking at plans to lower the drink-drive limit in England and Wales from 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath to just 22 micrograms.

Public interest in the topic has also risen, with Google searches for drink-driving penalties soaring by 5,000 per cent over the past month.

Currently, the legal limit in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland is roughly three units for women and four units for men, equating to about two pints of lager or two small glasses of wine.

Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Leasing Options, said people often underestimate how alcohol affects them.

"Many people don't realise that alcohol affects everyone differently. Factors such as height, gender, weight and even what you've eaten that day can all play a part in how your body processes alcohol," he said.

Mr Thompson advised drivers to stick to soft drinks or the growing range of alcohol-free alternatives in pubs, including zero-alcohol versions of popular beers like Guinness.

"For safety, it's wise to select an alcohol-free or soft drink if you intend to drive and avoid drinking completely," he said, noting that more people are now choosing to stay sober and that the options available have expanded considerably.

He also highlighted a key point many forget, which is that alcohol can remain in the bloodstream for up to 12 hours.

"So if you're planning to drive home the next morning after a social function, it'd be safer to arrange another mode of transport," Mr Thompson warned.

This is especially relevant for New Year's Day, when people may assume they are safe to drive after a night's sleep.

Exceeding the legal limit carries serious consequences. In 2024, there were 540 drink-driving collisions, and those caught can face fines of up to £2,500, prison sentences, and a minimum 12-month driving ban. Such penalties can have lasting impacts on work and daily life.

"Even slightly exceeding the limit puts others at risk," Mr Thompson said. "We urge drivers to be cautious over the party season and think sensibly to protect themselves and others."

Over the Christmas period, police began ramping up patrols to help crack down on drink driving through Operation Limit.

Chief Constable Jo Shiner, National Police Chiefs' Council lead for roads policing, warned driving under the influence is "selfish and incredibly dangerous, putting the lives of your passengers, other road users and yourself at risk".

She added: "We're pleased to be partnering with THINK! on their new campaign, which is highly impactful and coordinates with our enhanced enforcement of drink and drug driving offences over the December period.

"The message is simple: do not get behind the wheel if you have been drinking or taking drugs. Make the right decision, and together, we will save lives."