New limit must not dilute police enforcement of drink driving, says IAM

The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists), the UK’s largest independent road safety
charity, has today welcomed the proposal of a new lower drink drive limit, but stresses that enforcement will be the key factor that determines its success.

Commenting on the findings of the North Report, released today, IAM Director of Policy
and Research Neil Greig said: “Authorities should be aware that, should it pass into law, a new limit will make little difference to casualty figures without proper enforcement. Already stretched front line police may end up pursuing lower risk drivers, leaving less time to catch those who blatantly ignore any limit.”

Mr Greig continued: “A lower limit will hopefully make many more drivers think twice about taking any drink at all before getting behind the wheel. Drivers will also be more likely to get caught the morning after, but only if sufficient police are out there enforcing the law. “Many repeat offenders think they’re invincible, and ultimately it is fear of being caught that will eradicate drink driving rather than stronger penalties.”