As the police launch their summer drink-drive campaign, IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger recommends six top tips on avoiding the temptation and risk of drink-driving:

· Beware the quick drink after work. One pint with your colleagues in the sun might seem harmless but it can quickly turn into two, then three. Shell out for a taxi, get the train, or walk – it’ll cost much less than a drink-drive charge or accident.

· Ignore peer pressure. Your friends or family have had a few and don’t want to pay for a taxi. You have your car but have been drinking. Just say no – it’s your licence at stake.

· Driving with good intentions to a party, to a pub or to a restaurant and then just having a drink or two, puts more pressure on you to risk driving home, even if you’re not sure whether you are below the limit.

· You are likely to be breathalysed if you are involved in a collision, even if it is not your fault. Whether or not you think you’re fit to drive, don’t take the chance or somebody else’s mistake might become your problem.

· Even if you resist and don’t drive home, a drinking session the night before could put you over the legal limit the morning after. Bear this in mind and make alternative transport plans for the next day – don’t just risk it.

· Many accidents involve pedestrians who have been drinking. When walking home after a few drinks, take extra care, and if you’re driving be aware that pedestrians may be the worse for wear.

Rodger said: “Everyone is very aware of the risks of drink-driving during the Christmas party season, but drink-drive casualties actually reach a peak in the summer. When enjoying a leisurely lunchtime or evening barbeque with friends and family, you might think you are being careful, but the measures are likely to be larger and the drinks stronger than those served in a pub, and it’s easy to get carried away.

“Summer or winter, if you drink, don’t drive and if you are drive, don’t drink. Always refuse a lift from someone you know has been drinking.”