Just over two in five Walloons (42%) say they do n0t drink alcohol at all if they have to drive, according to a new survey conducted by the Walloon Road Safety Agency (AWSR).
Those who choose to drink and drive regardless admit to using excuses to downplay the risks, as discovered by the AWSR’s recent research used for a new awareness campaign against such behaviours.
"I haven't drunk much," "I don't live far away," and "I'm still able to drive" are some of the excuses used by Walloon motorists who had drunk alcohol before getting behind the wheel, according to an AWSR survey of 1,000 respondents.
The Walloon agency points out, however, that the risk of an accident increases exponentially with the quantity of alcohol consumed and that the effects of alcohol on the body are rapidly felt, as early as 10 minutes after consuming a glass. What's more, drink-driving is responsible for one in four fatal road accidents, or more than 60 deaths a year.
In response to these excuses, the AWSR is launching a new awareness campaign called 'No excuse is good enough'. Posters will adorn roads and advertising screens in shopping centres until mid-July, and a radio spot will be broadcast on the main French-language channels.
The campaign will also be available on social networks and on video, with adverts shown before Euro football matches, notably on giant screens in towns and cities that will be broadcasting the Red Devils' matches live.
