If you’re planning to have a few drinks at a barbeque this summer don’t cycle home, warns the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists).

Although drink-driving is socially unacceptable, many people wouldn’t think twice about cycling home after consuming more than the legal blood-alcohol limit for driving.

Neil Greig, IAM director of policy and research said: “Cycling crashes are underreported, and we need more research into hospital-based records to see how big this problem really is. A lot of cyclists that fall off under the influence just go to A&E, meaning the police never record the incident.

“Many people will have a bit of a wobble on the way home, but while you may be of less risk to other road users than when in a car, you could easily fall into a dangerous situation or cause someone else to swerve and crash to avoid you. If your cycling does result in a collision you are likely to come off worse.

“It is often the case that people who have had a couple of extra drinks will be cycling home in the dark, increasing the danger involved.”

Drink-cycling can also cost you financially. Anyone riding a cycle under the influence of drink (or drugs) to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of it on either a road or other public place, can be fined up to £1,000.

For best practice and legal advice, have a look at the fleet news legal section for more information.