Drink driving convictions damaging more than reputations

Convicted drink drivers who have already fallen foul of the law are seeing their motor insurance premiums skyrocket, by 150% on average, according to new research from MoneySupermarket.com.

This week, the Association of Chief Police Officers launches its summer campaign against drink and drug driving, but research carried out by Britain’s number one comparison site found motorists with a drink driving conviction (DR10 penalty) could see a staggering 150% increase to the cost of their car insurance.

According to research, a typical 30-year-old male driver convicted of drink driving could see his premiums rise from an average £472 a year, to £1,175, while female drivers could see a 133% hike. And with the Jubilee bank holiday and all its celebrations fast approaching, drivers have been warned of the dangers partying can bring.

“With warmer weather expected over the extended bank holiday, many of us will be dusting off the barbeque and celebrating the extra-long weekend with friends and family. If you are intending raising a glass or two it is essential to have travel arrangements in place to avoid getting behind the wheel,” said Peter Harrison, car insurance expert at MoneySupermarket.

“Driving under the influence of alcohol should not be considered under any circumstances, you would not only be risking your own safety but that of passengers and people around you.

“Taking the risk by drink driving can have dire consequences; it could lead to a hefty points conviction, a fine of up to £5,000, a 12-month driving ban and even a prison sentence. This will not only make it difficult for you to find an insurance provider willing to cover you in the future, but as our research has showed, the cost of your premium will increase substantially.”

Each person reacts differently to alcohol consumption and there are many different factors that come in play, such as gender, age, weight, and metabolism. So if you are trying to second guess if you are under the limit, or not, is driving still a risk worth taking?

This entry was posted on Tuesday 29th May, 2012. Edit this entry.