Stay safe on the road this World Cup, RoSPA urges

14 Jun 2018 10:32 AM

As the World Cup is now here, RoSPA is asking fans to plan their journeys to ensure they are not getting behind the wheel after having a drink.

The World Cup offers a great opportunity for friends and family to get together, whether at home or at the pub, but those planning on driving must remember the potentially-deadly effects that alcohol can have on a person’s ability behind the wheel.

In 2016 (the latest statistics available) an estimated 240 people were killed due to drink-driving on Britain’s roads, while around a further 1,260 people were seriously injured.

Nick Lloyd, RoSPA’s road safety manager, said: “Deaths and injuries due to drink-driving simply don’t have to happen. No matter how good a driver you think you are, alcohol affects everyone’s driving, and makes you more likely to be involved in a serious or fatal crash.

“We want people to enjoy the World Cup safely, and so it’s a good idea to plan your journeys in advance. If you are out with friends or family, ensure there’s a designated driver or book a taxi. If you know the person behind the wheel has had a drink, don’t get in the car with them, or better yet call the police – it’s your life, and the lives of other road users, that they are putting at risk.”

If you are driving the morning after, it is important to remember that you may still be over the drink-drive limit as it takes time for your body to process the alcohol.

RoSPA is calling for a reduction in the drink-drive limit from 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, to 50mg/100ml, which would bring England and Wales into line with Scotland.

Read more about RoSPA’s stance on drink-driving: www.rospa.com/rospaweb/docs/advice-services/road-safety/drivers/drinking-and-driving.pdf 

For photographs and other requests email: pressoffice@rospa.com or call 0121 248 2135.