Drink-driving laws in Scotland are strict, with lower legal alcohol limits than the rest of the UK. The legislation aims to reduce road accidents and improve public safety.
Legal Alcohol Limits in Scotland
Since December 2014, the legal limit in Scotland is:
- 22 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath
- 50 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood
- 67 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of urine
These are significantly lower than the limits in England and Wales.
Penalties for Drink-Driving in Scotland
Penalties for drink-driving are severe and can include:
- Driving ban: Minimum 12 months
- Fines: Up to £5,000
- Imprisonment: Up to 6 months
- Criminal record
- Increased insurance costs
- Possible vehicle seizure
Repeat offenders or those with very high alcohol levels face harsher penalties, including longer bans and jail time.
Machines Used to Detect Drink-Driving
Police in Scotland use two main types of breathalysers:
1.Roadside Screening Devices
Portable breathalysers (also known as preliminary breath test devices) are used at the roadside. They give a quick reading to determine if further testing is needed.
2.Evidential Breath Testing Machines
At the police station, more accurate machines like the Intoxilyzer or Evidenzer are used. These results are legally admissible in court.
In some cases, blood or urine tests may be used, especially if breath testing isn’t possible.
Drink-Driving Laws in Scotland: Penalties and Breathalyser Devices
At KeepMyLicence.com, we understand how serious a drink-driving charge can be. Scotland has some of the strictest drink-driving laws in the UK, with tougher limits and severe penalties. If you’ve been charged, knowing your rights and the procedures involved is essential.
What Is the Legal Alcohol Limit in Scotland?
Scotland lowered its drink-driving limit in 2014. The current legal limits are:
- 22 micrograms of alcohol in 100ml of breath
- 50 milligrams in 100ml of blood
- 67 milligrams in 100ml of urine
These limits are stricter than in England and Wales, meaning even small amounts of alcohol can put you over the limit.
Drink-Driving Penalties in Scotland
If you’re convicted of drink-driving in Scotland, the penalties can be life-changing:
- Minimum 12-month driving ban
- Up to £5,000 fine
- Up to 6 months in prison
- Criminal record
- Significantly higher insurance premiums
- Possible vehicle forfeiture
Repeat offenders or those with high alcohol readings face harsher consequences, including longer bans and extended prison terms.
How Police Detect Drink-Driving: Breathalysers and Testing
Police use two main types of devices to detect alcohol in drivers:
1.Roadside Breathalysers (Screening Devices)
If you’re stopped, police will likely ask you to provide a breath sample using a handheld device. If the result is positive, you’ll be arrested for further testing.
2.Evidential Breath Testing Machines
At the station, a more accurate breathalyser such as the Intoxilyzer or Evidenzer is used. These machines provide readings that can be used as evidence in court.
In some cases, especially where breath tests aren’t suitable, blood or urine samples may be taken.
Facing a Drink-Driving Charge?
We’re here to help. At KeepMyLicence.com, we specialise in defending drink-driving cases across Scotland. Our experienced road traffic solicitors can assess your case, challenge the evidence, and fight to protect your licence.
Contact us today for expert legal advice. 01414237389
