The laws on drink driving are very specific. The alcohol limit for drivers is 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, 35mg per 100ml of breath or 107mg per 100ml of urine. If you get caught over the limit, you can face a minimum 12-month driving ban and a fine of up to £5,000.

However, it’s hard to apply these figures to what you actually drink, which is why some people suggest it’s best not to have anything at all if you’re planning to drive the same evening. Where it gets more complicated is driving the morning after a big night – something that is particularly common in the festive season – as you could still have alcohol in your system.

A survey by road safety charity Brake revealed that one in five (19%) drivers admitted to driving the morning after having a significant amount to drink, when they were likely to remain over the Drink Drive limit.

It takes your body approximately one hour to process a standard drink, such as a half pint of beer, a small glass of wine or a pub measure of spirits. However, everyone is different and there is no quick fix – only time can remove alcohol from your system.

The best advice if you’re planning a heavy night is to pre-arrange alternative means of transport such as a taxi, take the bus or designate a sober driver. Alternatively, you can simply drink less and make sure you leave enough time between your last drink and waking up to ensure the alcohol has made its way through your system.

[For more information and resources visit Brake Road Safety]