More than 1.6 million motorists over the age of 55 have driven under the influence of alcohol

20 November 2023

Research by Direct Line Motor Insurance and Opinium has revealed that more than 1.6 million motorists over the age of 55 have driven while over the legal alcohol limit.

A further 3.6 million drivers in the same age group admitted that they ‘could have been’ over the limit while behind the wheel.

Other key findings and figures include:

• More than 750,000 older motorists admitted to driving when they could have still been drunk from the night before.
• Over 1 million drivers over the age of 55 said they believed men could drink more than women and be safe to drive. (In reality, the amount of alcohol a person can consume before reaching the legal limit depends on factors such as weight, medications and diet.)
• A further 1 million in the age bracket believe eating a large meal before driving would negate the effects of alcohol and a further 552,000 believe that older people are safer drivers and that it is therefore less dangerous if they drink and drive.
• The main excuse provided by 1.2 million older motorists for driving under the influence was that it was a short trip.
• Analysis of Department for Transport (DfT) breathalyser test data in England also found that an average of 15.3 per cent of over 50s who were tested, failed. Breaking down this figure, those in the North East had the highest failure rate at 18.5 per cent, while Yorkshire and the Humber had the lowest at 9.2 per cent.

Direct Line Head of Motor Insurance Steve Barrett said, “It is clear that younger drivers are not the only offenders when it comes to drink driving.

“Motorists may become complacent as they get older because they feel they are so experienced behind the wheel, but tolerance levels differ hugely depending on body type.

“Just because someone doesn’t feel drunk or is only driving a short distance does not mean they are safe to drive.”

Interestingly, Volvo is set to reveal a new electric vehicle model next month on November 7th which will include a sensor to detect if the driver is intoxicated.

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