Tougher law on alcohol could prevent up to 65 deaths a year

Everybody in your local pub thinks they are an expert on the drink driving laws, but the facts may be somewhat different in the cold light of day. As Government has announced its intention to cut the drink driving limit even further, it is more important than ever to stay abreast of the drinking and driving laws.

Endsleigh, a leading provider of UK car insurance, provides an overview of current legislation. Presently the legal limit for UK drivers is 80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood, known colloquially as BAC. This can also be expressed in terms of breath alcohol - 35 microgrammes per 100 ml - which is now the official measure in the UK.

This is approximately equivalent to two pints of ordinary strength beer. For a man of average weight this may be broadly true, but this sort of measurement should never be used as a general rule. It is impossible to draw an accurate connection between the amount of alcohol consumed and the resulting BAC. Drivers should therefore err on the side of caution and not drink before driving.

Former Transport Secretary Lord Adonis announced an official review of the law to recommend reducing the legal limit from 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood to 50mg, but it is unclear if the new coalition Government will continue with this plan. If the coalition Government does carry through with Labour’s plans, the drink driving limit could be less than a pint of beer or a glass of wine. Government believes the tougher law on alcohol will prevent up to 65 deaths a year and a further 230 serious injuries in car accidents linked to drink driving.

Research at University College London has impressed Sir Peter North, author of the review into the laws on drink and drug driving. According to the review the change could save the UK economy £120m a year by reducing medical costs and lost working time.

Sir North is considering recommending an even lower limit of 20mg for novice motorists and HGV drivers. Penalties for breaching the rules are expected to be watered down. Currently, anyone caught driving over the limit faces a minimum ban of 12 months. Most European countries with lower limits fine drivers and give them penalty points for minor breaches.

A new law on drug driving is also likely to be passed amid concern about the number of motorists driving under the influence of narcotics or prescription medicine. Top of ForBottom of FormThe new rules are expected to make it illegal to drive under the influence of prescribed drugs or in excess of a specified drug limit. Presently, the law only penalises those whose driving is impaired by illegal drugs.

Lord Adonis was reported to have said  Sir  North will be “reporting soon and if he makes recommendations for tightening up the law in either or both cases I’ll be taking that very seriously.”

Winter driving advice

Autumn is now well underway and there are plenty of things you can do to prepare yourself and your car for winter driving.

Check your tyres and consider replacing them if the tread depth is below 3mm. Check your windscreen wipers and replace any worn or damaged wiper blades. Long-life antifreeze is used in many modern vehicles and it must not be mixed with other types of antifreeze. If you're unsure of the type used in your car, take it to a main dealer.

Driving conditions change, and it's important to know what to expect and to be aware of the potential hazards each season can bring.

Wet weather

Many forecasters are predicting a wet winter this year, and we've got some great tips for driving in wet conditions.

Flash flooding can be a problem when a great deal of rain falls in a short time. Even experienced drivers who know the roads they are driving on can be caught out by flash floods.

Stopping distances increase in wet conditions. Leave twice as much space between yourself and the car in front.

Try to remain wary of flood water and don't drive too fast - only go as fast as the conditions allow. Only drive through standing water if you know its depth, and drive slowly to ensure you retain control of the vehicle and prevent damage to the engine. This is also more considerate to other motorists.

If you are unlucky enough to suffer a breakdown in heavy rain, leave the bonnet shut. This helps to prevent the electrics from getting soaked.

Visibility

During the winter, glare and dazzle from low sun can cause problems for motorists. Vision can be improved significantly by keeping the windscreen clean inside and out. Chips and scratches can also exacerbate visibility problems.

Snow and ice

When it's icy or has been snowing, allow plenty of time to get your car ready for a journey. Clear all your windows of ice and snow with some de-icer and a scraper. If the door lock is frozen, warm your car key using a cigarette lighter instead of breathing onto the lock.

Plan a route using major roads where possible, as these are more likely to be gritted. And stock your car with useful equipment. Consider carrying blankets, a shovel, a torch, a tow-rope, warm clothing and boots, jump leads, water-repellent, a fully charged mobile phone, drinking water, snacks, and a warning triangle. It's also worth taking an old rug or a sack, which you can place beneath the wheels if the car gets stuck anywhere.

Remember to leave a lot more space between you and the car in front as stopping distances are 10 times longer in icy conditions or snow.

More useful advice on driving in snow and ice

Tyres

If you regularly visit ski resorts, or you live in a part of the UK that experiences snow for prolonged periods, consider buying winter tyres. These are said to improve braking and traction performance on icy and snow-covered roads, as they remain flexible even at low temperatures.

Although we experienced a prolonged period of heavy snow and ice in February 2009, this is not the norm in the UK. Roads are generally well gritted and people tend to change their plans to avoid driving in heavy snow.

Additional information from the author: The AA is the largest breakdown cover organisation in the UK and has been providing assistance to motorists since 1905.  100 years later services include car insurance, the online route planner, maps, pub guides, travel guides, campsite guides, atlases and motoring advice.

Motorsport at the Palace: A fun day out for the family

One fine May Saturday in 1899, a group of motor enthusiasts gathered alongside the River Thames, intent on spending a day racing their beloved vehicles. They drove in procession to the Crystal Palace in Upper Norwood where, for the first time in the island's history, they raced on a closed course. British motor racing was born.

Once dubbed a 'high octane garden party', the event still attracts thousands of people from around the country. This year’s two-day sprint event will not only celebrate the history of the venue, but also showcase various beautiful classic racing cars.

Spectators will witness some of the star drivers and cars from over 100 years of motor racing, with cars dating from 1899 to 1972 on show, plus a few modern surprises scattered throughout the day. Some of the cars on show could well prove to be a precursor to motorsport's future, as electric and biodiesel fuelled vehicles are expected to participate.

The event takes place on two days - 30th to 31st May and is open to all fully elected members of the Sevenoaks and District Motor Club and members of clubs affiliated to the following Regional Associations: ASEMC, ACSMC, AEMC, and ASWMC. If you would like to enter your vehicle in the show or sprints visit www.motorsportatthepalace.com to register.

Prudential, an established motor insurance provider in the UK, warns drivers that not all insurance companies will cover vehicles for sports racing or track based events, hence it is vital to check your car insurance policy for any exclusions before participating.

There is free parking for visitors cars within the park, but the Palace encourages spectators to make use of public transport links into the area. Adult Tickets are just £10.00 per day, or £8.00 if purchased in advance. Children under sixteen are free but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. All proceeds will benefit local charities.

Please note that the above article was written on behalf of Prudential and Prudential does not control and cannot guarantee its relevance, timeliness, or accuracy. The views expressed in this article are not the views of Prudential.