New figures show the number of people killed in drink-drive collisions fell in 2023, but remains higher than a decade ago.
The DfT data, published on 31 July, shows that there were between 230 and 290 fatalities during 2023 involving a driver or rider who was over the legal alcohol limit – with a central estimate of 260 fatalities.
The central estimate represents a decline of 14% from 2022, but is however 7% higher than 2013.
The prevalence of drink-driving in road deaths has fallen over time, the DfT says. In 1979, 26% of road deaths occurred in collisions where at least one driver or rider was over the drink-drive limit.
This had fallen to 15% by 1989. Since then, the percentage of road deaths that are drink-drive related has varied between 12% and 18%. In 2023, the proportion was 16%.
The 2023 data also shows that about 1,860 people were killed or seriously injured in drink drive related collisions, a decline of 3% from 2022, while there were around 6,310 casualties of all severities, a fall of 6% from 2022.
Rod Dennis, RAC road safety spokesperson, said: “These disturbing figures show the twin evils of driving under the influence of drink and drugs are behind a frightening number of lives lost on the UK’s roads every year.
“It’s simply unacceptable that an estimated 260 people a year lose their lives as a result of drink-drivers. It remains the case that the proportion of road deaths where drink-driving was a cause is at a similar level to the late 1980s.
“Drugs, too, are playing an increasing role in fatalities and are now behind a record number of fatal collisions.
“A new approach to tackling these repugnant crimes is desperately needed. We hope this will be a key part of the Government’s forthcoming road safety strategy.”
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