Drink driving UK statistics refer to 2021, and show a worrying trend of a 12-year high for fatalities as a result of drink driving.
Estimates for 2021 show that between 240 and 280 people were killed in collisions in Great Britain where at least one driver was over the drink-drive limit, with a central estimate of 260 deaths.
The estimate of fatalities for 2021 highlights a statistically significant increase compared to the previous year.
It is important to note that the number of reported drink-drive collisions and casualties involved in them is likely to have been impacted by the pandemic in 2021. National restrictions implemented during periods of 2020 and 2021 led to a reduction in traffic and collisions, but may also have impacted on driver behaviour.
In total, there was an 11% increase in the number of deaths due to drink driving when compared to a year ago – and account for 17% of all fatalities on the roads.
RAC road safety spokesman Simon Williams said: “These figures are extremely worrying and demonstrate that the battle against drink-driving is far from over.
“This should be a wake-up call to both the Government and police forces about the need for effective enforcement, including increased roadside breathalysing. Our message to drivers is simple yet stark: drink-driving ruins lives.”
Despite the recent negative trend, the overall drink-driving related injuries on the roads in the UK have fallen 32% since 2011.
A common theme with these statistics over the years has seen male drivers being central to many of the collisions or fatalities.
The 2021 report has revealed that 79% of all drink-driving accidents involved male drivers – with those aged between 25 to 59 most likely to be involved.
The percentage of all casualties which occurred in drink-drive collisions was the highest in Wales at 7.3% followed by England at 5.2% and Scotland at 4.1%.
What do you make of these statistics? What more can the Government to increase the awareness of drink driving and improve safety for all road users? Leave your comments below.
OUR BIGGEST EVER BLACK FRIDAY SALE
