Drivers have been urged not to make a very expensive mistake when meeting loved ones this Christmas (Image: Getty)
Drivers thinking about meeting up with loved ones in the run up to have been urged to avoid a serious motoring offence that could have .
As Brits continue to feel increasingly festive, many are planning to go to parties at work or meet up with friends and family for a quiet drink together.
Whatever the case, Martin Smith, Motor Claims Manager at the insurer , suggested that motorists should never get behind the wheel if they are .
He explained: “Although you may ‘feel’ fine and able to drive, you shouldn’t get behind the wheel under any circumstances if you have taken drugs or .
“Doing so will severely affect your ability to think clearly and react, no matter how safe a driver you think you are, or may be when sober.”
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Motorists who drive over the limit can have much slower reaction times and spatial awareness (Image: Getty)
Whilst motorists often think they would be safe behind the wheel, even if they have had a few beers and wines, chances are their reaction times would be significantly slower and they may have difficulty judging distances and sizes of surrounding objects.
As a result, Brits who have an alcohol limit of more than 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood in England, Wales and Northern Ireland or 50 milligrams in Scotland should avoid taking to the roads.
Those who are found behind the wheel of a vehicle whilst over the drink drive limit could face a number of serious penalties including an unlimited fine, a driving ban of at least one year, and up to six months in prison.
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Drink driving can lead to an unlimited fine, up to six months in prison, and a ban from using a car (Image: Getty)
However, Martin suggested that the consequences could be even longer lasting, with drink drivers often struggling to get car insurance.
He added: “A drink/drug driving conviction could affect your ability to take out car insurance, and if you already have a policy in place, it could increase your future premium.
“Many people will also use their cars for work so if ever in doubt do not take the risk and get behind the wheel if you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”
Nevertheless, in spite of severe consequences, Aviva highlighted that a staggering amount of Brits have previously taken a risk in their car when they are over the drink drive limit.
In a survey of 2,001 motorists from across the country, 22 percent have used a vehicle whilst under the influence of alcohol, with men more likely to set off than women.
Those planning to drink at an event over the Christmas holidays have been urged to leave their car behind and take alternative forms of transportation, such as a bus, taxi, or use the services of a designated driver.