Soliciting experts Simpson Millar have conducted an analysis of road traffic accident data from the Department for Transport (DfT) to examine trends in drunk driving collisions over 12 years, from 2010 to 2022. The study identified that, contrary to expectations, months like September, October, and November saw more drunk driving collisions and casualties than festive period.
September and November are deceptively dangerous months for drunk driving, surpassing the typically worrisome holiday season. In the last year, September saw 390 collisions resulting in 600 casualties, higher than December’s 380 collisions and 550 casualties.
Similarly, data from the last 12 years shows that November is one of the worst months for drunk driving, with 9,970 collisions and 6,650 casualties, outpacing December. These figures challenge the common belief that the festive season is the most dangerous.
Danger in the dark: 16,910 accidents between 10 PM & midnight
The data highlights that 11 pm is the peak time for drunk driving accidents, with 5,830 collisions over 12 years, followed by midnight and 10 pm with 5,580 and 5,500 collisions respectively. Surprisingly, there are more drunk drivers on the road at 6 pm than at 2 am.
Additionally, collisions between 4 pm and 4:59 pm total 2,980, surpassing those from 4 am to 4:59 am. This underscores the need for heightened awareness as autumn approaches and during all peak driving times.
The South East’s sobering stats: 13,000+ drunk driving crashes
Regionally, the South East stands out as the most dangerous area for drunk driving, with over 13,000 collisions in the last 12 years.
The East of England follows with 8,140 collisions, but still trails significantly. London’s extensive public transport network helps keep its figures lower, but the South East’s high numbers emphasize the need for focused prevention efforts in this high-risk area.
How long does alcohol stay in your system?
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the legal alcohol limit is 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood or 35 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath. Alcohol can be detected in the body through various methods:
- Breath: Up to 14 hours
- Blood: Up to 12 hours
- Urine: Up to 14 hours
- Hair: Up to 90 days
The liver processes about one unit of alcohol per hour. For example, a pint of low-strength beer (two units) takes around two hours to clear from your system. To ensure safety, it’s best to avoid drinking if you plan to drive.
Actions to take after an accident caused by a drunk driver
If you’ve been in an accident caused by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation. Our personal injury solicitors can guide you through the process, covering rehabilitation costs, lost earnings, and more. Claims can include:
- Injuries and pain
- Lost income
- Vehicle and personal property damage
- Rehabilitation and extra costs
- Home modifications if needed
In England and Wales, you have three years from the accident date to make a claim, but acting sooner ensures details are fresh and increases your chances of a successful outcome.
