SAFE: Leave the car at home, urge GEM
Motorists should leave their car at home when partying this Christmas to avoid drink-drive temptation and potential tragedy, GEM Motoring Assist have urged.
The road safety organisation and breakdown cover company insist drivers must shift their thinking from concern over getting caught to the possibility of causing accident or death.
An estimated 290 people lost their lives to drink-driving related accidents in 2012 – a 25% increase on 2011 – and GEM are advising motorists to avoid driving altogether after drinking.
David Williams MBE, CEO of GEM Motoring Assist, said: “Drink-driving is of course an issue that we need to be aware of all year round, but during the festive season it is more prominent than ever, as drivers get into the Christmas spirit and adopt the ‘just one more’ attitude.
“It would be interesting to see the statistics so that we can understand just how many convictions are as a result of that one extra drink.
“I imagine the results would be surprising.”
Image courtesy of West Midlands Police, with thanks.
