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Police have announced that this year's annual drink-drive campaign is to be aimed at "well intentioned" morning-after drivers, who may still be over the limit from the night before.
Officers across the country will focus on stopping drivers who may not realise they are still over the drink-drive limit the day after a festive celebration.Part of the issue with drink-driving the lack of a clear intake limit, with alcohol having very different effects on each person, and taking varying amounts of time to take effect and wear off.
Deputy Chief Constable Suzette Davenport said: "Surprisingly last year, more people failed a breath test (or failed to provide a specimen) between the hours of 6am and 11am the morning after than between 11pm and 1am the night before.
"Drivers need to be aware that regardless of the time of day they are caught, whether they are going to work or taking children to school, they will face the same penalties as someone who has chosen to drink heavily in a pub and driven at night."
Road Safety Minister Stephen Hammond said: "Drivers should be in no doubt that if they get behind the wheel after drinking this Christmas, they risk losing their licence as well as facing a fine and even a prison sentence.
"Last year 280 people were killed in accidents where the driver was over the limit. Our message is clear: Do not let a selfish decision ruin your life or someone else's."