A few extra drinks at parties and gatherings over the festive period could land you with an unlimited fine and a driving ban
Car expert Keith Hawes warned that "drinking alcohol can skew your judgement".
Director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts said: "Many people often think they are fine to drive themselves home when they are not - whether that is the night of the event, or even the morning after.
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"Driving when under the influence of alcohol can affect your perception, concentration and reactions when on the road.
"This is extremely dangerous and puts yourself and other road users at risk.
"Many overlook how long alcohol can stay in your system, so it is important to make drivers aware of this during the festive period when alcohol consumption typically increases in the UK."
Drink and drug-driving is dangerous and illegal all year round.
But the the Christmas and New Year festivities see many of us consume more alcohol than usual as we celebrate with colleagues and relax with family.
There were over 3,507 driving under the influence offences across the UK in December, 2019, around 113 incidents per day, according to Nationwide Vehicle Contracts.
The car company is warning drivers how to avoid drink-driving during Christmas and New Year celebrations this year.
Mr Hawes said: "After almost two years of lockdown restrictions causing celebrations to take place at home, Brits can now return to celebrating with loved ones and colleagues at pubs, clubs and parties this festive season.
"This is likely to involve alcohol for many.
"Research by Drinkaware found that over the festive period, 61% of British drinkers over-indulge with alcohol.
"On average, men admit to consuming around six drinks on Christmas Day, while women average at four and a half drinks.
"In another survey by Drinkaware, over one in 20 drivers believed they had driven over the legal limit when driving in England and Wales in the past year.
"Whether you're having 'just the one' or more than a few tipples, drinking alcohol can skew your judgement."
Weight, age, sex and other factors influence how long it takes your body to process alcohol.
It can take several hours for your body to process a single unit, taking 2.3 hours for a 4% pint of lager or a 175ml glass of 13% wine.
Legal drink driving limits in England, Wales and Northern Ireland require less than 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, 35mcg per 100ml of breath, and 107mg per 100ml of urine.
The lower limit in Scotland is more in line with much of Europe at 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, 22mcg of alcohol per 100ml of breath, and 67mg per 100ml of urine.
Nationwide Vehicle Contracts suggest staying away from alcohol entirely to avoid breaking the law and putting lives at risk if you plan to drive.
But if this isn't possible, they say to drink after eating, consume lower strength drunks in smaller measures, and to pace yourself with alcohol-free alternatives.
It's always best to organise a designated driver who won't be drinking, book a taxi, or take public transport.
