Government statistics on reported road casualties for 2021 show that between 240 and 280 people were killed in collisions in Great Britain where at least one driver was over the drink-drive limit.

Drink-drive fatalities hit 12-year high for 2021

The central estimate of 260 fatalities is the highest level since 2009, with a statistically significant increase compared to the previous year. However, the increase from years before the COVID-19 pandemic is smaller.

The number of reported drink-drive collisions and casualties involved in them is likely to have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. National restrictions implemented during periods of 2020 and 2021 led to a reduction in traffic and collisions and may also have impacted on driver behaviour.

RAC road safety spokesman Simon Williams said: “These figures are extremely worrying and demonstrate that the battle against drink-driving is far from over. This should be a wake-up call to both the Government and police forces about the need for effective enforcement, including increased roadside breathalysing. Our message to drivers is simple yet stark: drink-driving ruins lives.”