Drink-Drive Deaths Spike Back to 1980s Levels
New government figures reveal a shocking rise in drink-driving fatalities, climbing back to levels not seen since the late 1980s. The RAC has slammed the ongoing threat posed by a “hard core” group of drivers — mostly men — who risk lives by getting behind the wheel drunk.
RAC Warns: Reckless Drivers Put Everyone at Risk
Rod Dennis, RAC road safety spokesperson, blasted the worrying trend. He said, “Although the numbers are still lower than in the late 20th century, the fact that we’re witnessing a rate of fatalities similar to the late 1980s is abhorrent. This reckless behaviour endangers everyone on the road.”
Stricter Limits Aren’t Enough, RAC Demands Tougher Action
Despite Scotland’s tougher blood alcohol limit introduced in 2014, UK-wide stats show lowering legal limits alone isn’t cutting it. Dennis urged authorities to get tougher, saying, “There’s a compelling case for alcolocks – devices that stop over-the-limit drivers from starting their vehicles. More enforcement is crucial, though police resources are stretched.”
Drug-Driving on the Rise, More Must Be Done
The RAC welcomed the new inclusion of drug-driving data, pushed for by PACTS. Early results show a worsening drug-driving problem, spotlighting the urgent need for better data and action.
Calling for a unified government plan, Dennis added, “Every life lost is one too many. Immediate, decisive action is needed to stop these dangerous driving behaviours.”
