Young drivers are being alerted to the severe consequences including possible driving bans if found driving under the influence of alcohol.
This caution follows studies showing that 49 percent of individuals aged between 16 and 34 have accepted rides from drivers who were potentially over the legal alcohol limit.
The data comes as many are gearing up for this weekend’s large music events in the UK, such as Reading, Leeds, and Creamfields festivals.
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During last year’s Reading Festival, Thames Valley Police noted a 33 percent increase in arrests for driving under the influence, underscoring the ongoing risk.
The study highlighted worrisome trends among generations, with 52 percent of millennials and 43 percent of Generation Z admitting to riding with potentially drunk drivers.
These trends are less prevalent among older generations, with only 27 percent of Generation X respondents reporting similar instances.
Bryn Brooker, Head of Road Safety at Nextbase, mentioned, “Festival season is meant for enjoyment and music, yet the danger lingers if your ride or your designated driver hasn’t sobered up.”
He pointed out that even substances consumed the night before can significantly impair driving abilities. “Drugs and alcohol can greatly affect driving, and many underestimate this risk,” he noted.
The survey also discovered that 75 percent of participants believe drug-impaired driving has grown into a more pressing issue compared to recent years, with 67 percent of 16 to 24-year-olds echoing this concern.
Mr. Brooker advised making transportation plans before attending events, ensuring designated drivers either keep to strict alcohol limits or abstain completely the night before.
He warned against making last-minute changes to driving plans or judging someone’s ability to drive based on their appearance.
“Having a solid plan reduces the chance for regrettable last-minute decisions,” he recommended, suggesting that attendees might consider leaving later to avoid driving early in the morning while still fatigued.
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For those unsure about their alcohol levels, Brooker suggested using breathalyzers, which start at £3 for single-use models. However, he stressed these devices are not completely accurate and should only be used as a guide.
“‘Knowing your limit’ doesn’t always mean you’re under the legal limit,” he explained, adding that abstaining from alcohol is always the safest option when planning to drive.
Experts noted that the body takes about an hour to process a single unit of alcohol, although this varies depending on factors like food intake, sleep quality, physical condition, and activity levels. A typical pint of beer contains about two to three units, while a can of wine has around two units.
This means that those who stop drinking during the last performances may still be over the legal limit well into the next morning. “Alcohol can linger in your system longer than you might expect,” Mr. Brooker cautioned, emphasizing that feeling okay does not ensure you are legally safe to drive.
Various drugs also present even greater risks, with substances like cannabis, cocaine, and MDMA potentially remaining detectable for days or weeks.
These can impair driving skills for the entire following day, regardless of perceived sobriety. “Don’t count on coffee, sleep, or a big breakfast to sober you up; only time can do this,” he emphasized.
Mr. Brooker urged festivalgoers to intervene when friends consider driving after consuming alcohol or drugs. “Sometimes the safest thing you can do is prevent a friend from driving,” he said, acknowledging that nearly half of young people still accept rides despite doubts about the driver’s sobriety.
Driving laws impose heavy penalties for impaired driving, including a minimum 12-month ban, unlimited fines, and possible six months of imprisonment. Criminal records from such offenses remain on driving licenses for 11 years, impacting employment opportunities, visa applications, and insurance premiums.
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