INTRODUCTION

​

If you’ve been caught drink driving and have never been in trouble with the police before, you’ve just experienced a traumatic ordeal. From arrest to being released on bail with a court date, it's something you’ll never forget.

Right now, you're likely feeling a range of emotions: regret, anger, fear, and shame. But the main concern is probably, “I’ve never broken the law before. What will happen to me?”

 

This supportive book is here to answer that question. It’s not about getting you off the offence, that's almost impossible. Instead, it will guide you through what's ahead so you don’t worsen the situation. You might think, “How can things get worse?” But unless you handle things carefully, you can certainly make matters worse. Saying or doing the wrong things can increase your penalties, affect your livelihood, and harm your mental health.

 

This book will help you navigate your insurance company, employer, friends, family, and life without a car. It also provides vital information about attending court and managing the consequences of your conviction: the ban, fines, and the criminal record itself.

 

THE PRIMARY GOAL OF THIS BOOK IS TO ASSIST YOU:

 

1. Keep Calm and Don’t Panic: Panic leads to bad decisions and increased stress.

​

2. Think Damage Limitation: Work to reduce the consequences and their impact.

​

3. Plan for the Worst, Hope for the Best: Prepare for the worst; anything less will feel like a relief.

 

You have limited time before your court appearance, so start planning now. Read Part One: Questions and Answers for crucial information, and refer to the Reference Section for more. When caught drink driving, you learn who your real friends are.

This book might be the only friend you have, and while it won’t erase your charge, it will help minimise the consequences—that’s a guarantee.

 

 

CONTENTS

 

1. Getting Started: 20 Frequently Asked Questions

 

2.  Informing Key Contacts 

• Communicating with Friends and Loved Ones 

• Notifying Your Insurance Provider 

• Discussing with Your Employer 

• Contacting Professional Associations (if applicable) 

• Seeking Legal Advice

 

3. Preparing for Court

• Pleading Not Guilty 

• Pleading Guilty 

• Preparation: What to Do Before Court 

• Appearing in Court 

 

4. Managing the Consequences 

• Mental Health and Wellbeing 

• Coping with the Stigma of Drink Driving 

• Dealing with Licence Endorsement 

• Managing Your Criminal Record 

• Navigating Life Without a Vehicle 

• Resisting the Urge to Drive

 

5. Getting Back on the Road 

• Checking Your Driving Licence Status Online 

• If Not on the HRO Scheme 

• If on the HRO Scheme 

• Renewing Your HGV or PCV Licence 

• Finding Affordable Insurance 

 

6. Forewarned is Forearmed 

• Penalties and consequences of reoffending

• Understanding Drug Driving

• Trends and Developments in Drink Driving Prosecutions 

 

Final Message from the Author 

​

Reference Section