Drink driving

Drink driving is defined as driving or attempting to drive a motor vehicle on the public highway or a public place whilst under the influence of alcohol exceeding the prescribed limit.

The maximum penalties are:

  • a 12 month mandatory disqualification for first offence or 3 years for second offence within 10 years;
  • a fine of up to £5,000.00; and/or
  • 6 months imprisonment.

If you are convicted of drink driving it is obligatory that you are disqualified from driving unless the Court finds that a "special reason" exists for not doing so (see below).

The Court does have the opportunity to consider sending a convicted motorist on a rehabilitation course. This entitles a reduction of 25% of the disqualification period. A mandatory 12 month ban would therefore be reduced to 9 months.

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