Motorists unaware of alcoholic content in drinks

Many drivers are increasing their chances of being caught over the limit by not knowing the number of units in alcoholic beverages.

A new drink drive survey from AlcoSense found that virtually all drivers underestimated the number of units of alcohol in a pint of beer and a glass of wine.

Some 96 per cent of respondents were unaware that a six per cent ABV lager contained 3.4 units of alcohol and 97 per cent underestimated that a 250ml glass of wine at 13 per cent ABV had the same number of units.

The most popular answer was that both drinks contained two units, with the law offering a two unit limit.

Hunter Abbott, chief executive of AlcoSense, said: "This is worrying for the evening, but even more worrying for the morning after as people are vastly underestimating just how much alcohol they have consumed. Only four of these drinks could put you over the limit the following morning."

Recent research from moneysupermarket.com noted the impact upon cheap car insurance if a person is caught drink driving, with the average person having to pay an extra 82 per cent on top of their original car insurance quote.

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