SEVEN EVERYDAY DRIVING HABITS THAT COULD LAND MOTORISTS IN TROUBLE

1. Sleeping in your car after drinking - up to £2,500, a ban or imprisonment

Sleeping in a vehicle rather than driving may appear to be the responsible choice, but a person can still commit an offence if they are "in charge" of a motor vehicle on a road or other public place while over the prescribed alcohol limit.

Being asleep in the car does not automatically result in guilt. The law provides a defence where the person can prove there was no likelihood of them driving while they remained over the limit.

The full circumstances matter, including whether there was a realistic possibility that the person could drive before becoming sober. No single step involving the keys or sleeping position guarantees that a person will not be regarded as being in charge.

"Under Section 5 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, being in charge of a vehicle while over the limit can carry up to three months' imprisonment, a fine of up to £2,500 and a possible driving ban. The safest response after drinking is to arrange another way home and leave the vehicle entirely, because sleeping in it can still create a serious legal risk if the circumstances sugges...