DRINK DRIVE EDUCATION FOR BOLTON MAGISTRATES - Wednesday, June 20th, 2007
Stronger alcohol sold in larger measures is leading to some people being “unwittingly” caught drink driving, Bolton magistrates learned at an alcohol awareness session held at their court.
Mel Hughes, of the driver training specialists, the TTC Group, gave an insight to 16 magistrates into the drink drive rehabilitation scheme which the organisation runs across Greater Manchester and many parts of the UK.
Bolton JP Adrian Thornley said he now understood how easy it was for people to get caught drink driving.
“Measures are almost double what they used to be and the strength of alcohol has also increased. Everyone should have this information. It was fascinating and should definitely be taught in schools.
“It is safest not to drink anything before you drive but the information we received showed just how easy it is for drivers to unwittingly drink and drive.”
JP Jeff Armstrong said: “It was very interesting to learn how to work out how much alcohol was in a unit. This was a fascinating course and the best course I have attended in a long time.”
Magistrates learned how one in four drink drivers are now caught in the morning unaware that they are still over the limit from the night before.
TTC manager Mel Hughes gave an insight into the 18 hour rehabilitation course which offenders volunteer to attend in exchange for up to a quarter off their driving ban.
The vast majority of drink drivers who attend the course, say they wished they had the knowledge about alcohol, units, absorption rates, health and effects on driving ability before they broke the law.
The TTC Group is the UKs largest provider of the drink drive rehabilitation course. It also provides training for the corporate sector on alcohol and drug awareness as part of a detailed education programme for fleet drivers. For more information call 0845 270 4380 or visit www.ttc-uk.com