Only 40% of drivers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland correctly said the legal drink drive limit was 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath.

Worryingly, nearly a tenth (8%) of drivers believe that it is 45 micrograms or more, however a quarter (25%) erred on the side of caution and believe that the limit is 25 micrograms.

The research from The Co-op Insurance revealed older drivers aged over 55 (42%) are most clued up about drink drive limits, however it is drivers aged 35-44 who are least informed, with only 38% knowing their limits.

Men are more clued up on limits with almost half (47%) correctly answering the question in comparison to a third (35%) of women.

Recent road safety figures say that drink drivers accounted for 13% of all road fatalities.

According to the DVLA, those caught driving or attempting to drive while over the legal limit or unfit through drink can receive: 6 months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine, a driving ban for at least 1 year (3 years if convicted twice in 10 years).

Drivers in Scotland fare marginally better than their counterparts from across the UK, however over half (56%) still couldn’t say what the Scottish drink drive limit is – 22 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath.

Nick Ansley, head of motor insurance at the Co-op, said: “Drivers should be aware of drink driving limits when they take to the roads, all year round in order to keep communities safe.

“Especially at this time of year, when social occasions where having a quick drink are common, awareness of limits are all the more necessary.

“Drink driving is a serious offence which carries serious penalties for a reason – it can devastate lives. In addition, if you are caught drink driving, obtaining car insurance in future could be extremely difficult, and expensive.”

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