If you think drink-driving is becoming less of a problem in Britain, the latest figures might shock you. According to IAM RoadSmart, almost 100 drivers every single day have been slapped with drink-driving endorsements over the past three years.
And here’s the real kicker: the age group most often caught isn’t teenagers—it’s adults who should know better.
Who’s Most Likely to Be Caught?
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25 to 39-year-olds lead the way with nearly 48,000 convictions.
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Not far behind, 40 to 65-year-olds clocked up another 40,000 cases.
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Younger drivers (17–24) accounted for around 15,000 incidents.
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Over-65s? Just 3,000—making them the least likely to be caught.
These numbers, sourced from DVLA data via a Freedom of Information request, paint a worrying picture.
The Harsh Reality of Being Over the Limit
Getting caught isn’t just embarrassing—it’s life-changing. Penalties include:
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Immediate licence revocation
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The risk of prison time
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Unlimited fines
On top of that, a drink-driving endorsement (DR20) sticks around on your licence for 11 years. Get caught again within a decade, and the punishment gets even tougher.
The Cost Is Eye-Watering
IAM RoadSmart estimates that the financial fallout from a conviction could hit £80,000. That’s not just the fine—it includes lost income, solicitor fees, higher insurance premiums, and even the cost of alternative transport. Worryingly, that figure has jumped 15% compared to five years ago.
A Deadly Trend on the Roads
Beyond the money, the human cost is devastating. Drink-driving-related deaths have actually been rising over the past decade, hitting their highest level in 13 years in 2022. That alone raises big questions about whether current road safety measures are really working.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
