As summer heats up, so does the risk of drink-driving – but not always in the way you might think. While most of us know better than to drink and drive, morning after drink driving is still a big issue on UK roads. That’s why the police are stepping up efforts with a summer crackdown to keep drivers – and everyone else – safe.
In this post, explore what morning after drink driving is, why it’s dangerous, and how drivers and businesses (like those with fleets) can protect themselves and their employees.
What is Morning After Drink Driving?
Morning after drink driving happens when someone drives the day after drinking, still unaware they could be over the legal alcohol limit. Even if you’ve had a good night’s sleep and feel okay, alcohol might still be in your system – affecting your reaction times and decision-making.
Shocking Stats from Recent Surveys
New research from IAM RoadSmart, a UK road safety charity, shows:
- 21% of drivers admitted to drinking alcohol after 10pm even though they needed to drive before 9am.
- 38% said they stopped drinking after 9pm but still drove early the next morning – often unaware of the risk.
- Nearly a third (31%) of people have been with someone who drank before driving in the last 12 months.
- 300 people died in drink-drive related crashes in 2022 – the highest since 2009.
- July has more drink-drive-related casualties than any other month.
Why the Police Are Cracking Down This Summer
Chief Constable Jo Shiner, lead for roads policing in England and Wales, says there’s “no excuse” for driving under the influence – even the morning after.
That’s why officers across the country are running Operation Spotlight this July, focusing on the “fatal four” driving offences, including drink and drug driving.
“We can’t be everywhere, but we can be anywhere,” says the police.
How Much Alcohol is Too Much?
Alcohol is usually cleared from your system at about one unit per hour. But that depends on things like your weight, liver health, and metabolism.
Here’s a rough example:
- Three pints of strong beer = 9 units
- Three large glasses of wine = 9 units
If you stop drinking at 10pm, alcohol could still be in your system at 7am or later.
Even if you’re under the legal limit, alcohol can mess with your sleep – meaning you’ll be tired, groggy and less alert when you drive. That’s just as dangerous.
Advice for Drivers: “None for the Road”
IAM RoadSmart and the police are clear:
If you’re planning to drive the next morning, either:
- Avoid alcohol completely, or
- Delay your journey until you’re sure you’re safe.
What Can Employers Do?
Fleet Safety with FSGB Driver Management
For companies that run fleets of vehicles, the morning after risk is a serious duty-of-care issue.
That’s where Fleet Service GB (FSGB) comes in. They offer expert Driver Management services that help businesses:
- Monitor driver behaviour
- Reduce road risk and improve compliance
With FSGB, fleet managers can make sure drivers are fit to drive – not just the night before, but the morning after too.
What About Drink-Drive Rehabilitation?
A massive 81% of people support making rehab courses mandatory for drink-drive offenders. Currently, these courses are optional but could reduce reoffending if made compulsory.
FAQs About Morning After Drink Driving
How long after drinking can I legally drive in the UK?
It depends on how much you’ve drunk, but a rough guide is one unit per hour. If you’ve had 9 units, you may need at least 9–10 hours before driving safely.
Can you still be over the limit the next day?
Yes. Especially if you drank heavily the night before or stopped drinking late.
Is morning after drink driving illegal?
Yes – if you’re over the limit or impaired, you can be prosecuted just the same as if you’d been drinking that morning.
What are the penalties for drink driving in the UK?
They include:
- A driving ban
- Unlimited fine
- Up to 6 months in prison
- A criminal record
What is FSGB Driver Management?
Fleet Service GB provides a full range of Driver Management services to help businesses improve fleet safety, reduce risk and comply with road safety laws.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Take the Risk
With more people out enjoying summer barbecues, pub gardens and late-night gatherings, the morning after drink-driving risk is real. Whether you’re a private driver or a fleet operator, take steps to stay safe and legal.
