Drink Drivers

Change in law to tackle the most dangerous drink drivers

The most dangerous drink drivers will now have to pass a medical before they are allowed back on the roads under a change in the law announced today (Thursday 3 May 2013) by Road Safety Minister Stephen Hammond. The changes, which come into force from 1 June 2013, mean that high risk offenders will need to pass a medical confirming they are no longer alcohol dependent at the end of their disqualification and before they start driving. 

Currently, all high risk offenders must pass a medical examination before they can be issued with a driving licence following their disqualification.  However, drivers can start driving as soon as they have applied for their driving licence. Evidence suggests that some high risk offenders delay their medical in order to continue driving. The changes will prevent them from driving until they have passed their medical examination and been granted a licence.   

The changes also mean that drink drivers who refuse to give permission for a blood sample to be analysed will now be classified as high risk offenders. This means that they will only get their licence back following disqualification if they pass the required medical.