News & Features

The Majority of Motorists Support Alcolocks

Posted in News on Tuesday, December 16th, 2025

Four in five UK motorists (82%) support the introduction of alcohol interlocks, known as ‘alcolocks’, to help reduce repeat drink-driving, according to new figures from the RAC. Only 7% of drivers oppose the idea, while 12% remain unsure. 

Alcolocks are already used successfully in countries such as Belgium, the Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand and the United States. The devices prevent a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath, effectively stopping offenders from driving while over the limit. 

Among drivers who support the technology, 71% believe every motorist caught over the legal limit should be required to have an alcolock fitted. Another 23% say the devices should be reserved for repeat offenders. 

Support spans all age groups, though younger drivers are the most enthusiastic, 87% of those under 25 and 86% of those aged 25–44 back the idea. Even among drivers aged 65 and over, nearly three-quarters (73%) are in favour. 

The RAC Report on Motoring 2025 also reveals that drink-driving behaviour has crept back to near pre-pandemic levels. More than one in 10 (12%) respondents admit to driving when they thought they were over the limit, with even higher rates reported among younger drivers. 
The latest Department for Transport figures highlight the scale of the issue: an estimated 260 people were killed in 2023 in crashes involving at least one driver over the legal alcohol limit, while around 1,600 were seriously injured. RAC Road Safety Spokesperson Rod Dennis said the findings show drivers want stronger action: “Levels of drink-driving remain alarmingly high, and it’s clear current penalties aren’t working. Giving courts the power to mandate alcohol interlocks is something drivers believe deserves serious consideration. These devices are widely used elsewhere and could meaningfully cut alcohol-related collisions and casualties here in the UK.” 

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