Getting caught drinking and driving this Christmas could cost drivers over £500 in extra insurance premiums, according to the AA.
According to the AA's latest figures a 35-year-old married man living in London might pay £600 to insure his 1999 Vauxhall Vectra.
An AA spokesman said: "Following a drink-driving ban, his premium would increase by 45% to over £870. If he has not built up a no-claims bonus, he would increase £550 to over £1,780."
Andrew Briscoe, managing director of AA insurance said: "Quite apart from the fact that drinking and driving puts the motorist and other road users at serious risk, insurers may come down hard on drivers with a drink conviction - especially if they have not built up a no-claims bonus.
"The message is clear. Have a happy Christmas, but don't mix drink with driving."
