A recent analysis has revealed that Stoke-on-Trent, a city in the Midlands, ranks among England’s top drink-driving hotspots. Residents here carry some of the highest average penalty points on their licences due to alcohol-related driving offences, indicating a potential issue with drink-driving in the area.
This listing, however, might also reflect the proactive stance of Staffordshire police, who are particularly vigilant in monitoring drink-driving violations. Similar to speeding enforcement, the frequency of drink-driving detections can vary significantly depending on the intensity of local policing.
Currently, Stoke-on-Trent holds the 8th position nationally, with drivers averaging 1.86 penalty points for drink-driving offences. The town of Luton takes the top spot as England’s drink-driving capital, with an average of 3.31 penalty points per driver, followed by Carlisle, Torquay, and Norwich.
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These developments come in the wake of the Government’s upcoming road safety measures, which will reduce the legal drink-driving limit from 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath to 22 micrograms. The stricter limit is expected to come into effect next year.
Alicia Hempsted, a car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, emphasized the importance of caution: “Reducing the legal alcohol limit sends a clear message that even small amounts of alcohol impair driving judgment. If you plan to drink, it’s safer to use taxis or arrange a designated driver.”
She also highlighted the severe consequences of drink-driving convictions beyond legal penalties: “Such offences can significantly increase insurance premiums or even lead to refusal of coverage, adding a substantial financial burden.”