The number of fatal drink-drive accidents in terrific Britain enhanced by 26 per cent in 2012, according to provisional figures from the Government.
The statistics show that in total 290 people died in an accident involving a chauffeur found to be over the limit. This is up from 230 in 2011.
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This figure made up 17 per cent of all road deaths across terrific Britain, though the figures could change when they are officially confirmed next year.
Amongst the number of people killed in drink-drive accidents, 68 per cent were chauffeurs and bikers found to be over the limit. The other 32 per cent was made up of other road users involved in the accident.
There were a total of 6,680 accidents involving a chauffeur or rider over the alcohol limit in 2012. The number of people seriously injured in these was 1,210, down by five per cent on the previous year, while there were 8,500 small injuries.
Numbers have been on the decline because records began in 1979, when the number of deaths was 1,640. However, 2011 marked the lowest total recorded at 230.
Local carry minister Norman Baker said: “These newest figures are provisional, but any road death is one too numerous and we are absolutely not complacent when it concerns road safety.
“That is why we are taking forward a package of steps to streamline enforcement against drink-driving, including approving portable evidential breath-testing equipment which will allow for much more effective and efficient enforcement.”
Institute of advancement Motorists (IAM) director of policy and research Neil Greig said: “The IAM is concerned that despite continued police campaigns the message does not seem to be getting through to a minority of drivers.
“This increase shows the vital need for the department for carry to reverse cuts in publicity funding and continue to ram home the message that drink driving kills.”