Drink Driving During Christmas Nights Out: The Facts, Risks & Legal Consequences
The festive season is one of the best times of the year — Christmas nights out, work parties, and family get-togethers. But it’s also one of the most dangerous times to be on the road. Every year in the UK, thousands of drivers are caught drink driving over the Christmas period, and sadly, many lives are lost as a result.
At Linwood Coachworks Body Shop, we see first-hand the devastating impact that drink driving can have — not just on vehicles, but on people’s lives. This post covers what you need to know before getting behind the wheel after a festive night out.
Why Drink Driving Increases at Christmas
December brings more social events than any other month. Office parties, pub catch-ups, and family dinners often involve alcohol, and that’s where judgement slips. Many people wrongly believe that “just a couple of drinks” won’t make a difference, but even a small amount of alcohol can slow reaction times and reduce concentration.
In Scotland, the drink drive limit is lower than in the rest of the UK:
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22 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath (Scotland)
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35 micrograms per 100ml (England, Wales, and Northern Ireland)
That means just one pint or a single glass of wine could put you over the legal limit in Scotland.
The Legal Consequences of Drink Driving
If you’re caught over the limit, the consequences are severe:
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A minimum 12-month driving ban
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A fine of up to £5,000
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A criminal record
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Possible imprisonment (up to 6 months)
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Significantly higher insurance costs
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Potential loss of employment if driving is part of your job
Police Scotland also ramp up roadside checks over the festive period as part of their annual Festive Drink and Drug Drive Campaign — so the chances of being stopped are far higher than usual.
The Morning After – Still Over the Limit?
One of the biggest drink driving risks at Christmas isn’t leaving the pub — it’s the next morning.
Alcohol takes time to leave your system. Depending on how much you drink, you might still be over the limit the next day, even if you feel fine.
As a rule of thumb, it takes around one hour per unit of alcohol to leave your body, but that varies from person to person. The only safe approach is simple:
If you’re drinking, don’t drive.
What Happens After an Accident Caused by Drink Driving
If you’re involved in a collision while under the influence, your insurance may refuse to cover the damage, and you could be personally liable for costs — including repairs to your own car and others involved.
At Linwood Coachworks Body Shop in Renfrewshire, we repair vehicles involved in all types of accidents. We always remind drivers that safety and responsibility start long before an accident ever happens.
Our team is BSI 10125 accredited, meaning all repairs meet the official British standard for vehicle body repair — giving you complete peace of mind if your car is ever damaged.
How to Stay Safe This Christmas
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Plan ahead – Arrange a taxi, lift, or public transport before you head out.
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Nominate a designated driver – Someone who sticks to soft drinks all night.
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Stay over – If your event is far from home, book accommodation.
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Use alcohol-free alternatives – Many pubs now offer zero-alcohol beers and mocktails.
Final Thoughts
The festive season should be about celebrating, not taking risks. A split-second decision to drive after drinking can change lives forever.
At Linwood Coachworks Body Shop, we’re committed to promoting road safety across Renfrewshire, Glasgow, and the surrounding areas, and we see first-hand how drink driving impacts families every year.
This Christmas, enjoy yourself — but make sure you get home safely. Your car, your licence, and your life are worth far more than a short drive.
About Linwood Coachworks
Located in Linwood, Renfrewshire, Linwood Coachworks is a trusted, family-run BSI 10125-accredited body shop specialising in accident repair, insurance work, and high-quality vehicle restoration.
If your car has been damaged and you need expert advice, contact us today at www.linwoodcoachworks.co.uk or visit our workshop for a free, no-obligation estimate.