Getting behind the wheel after enjoying a "festive tipple" isn't worth the often costly and damaging consequences, car insurance customers have been reminded in the run-up to Christmas.

As car insurance experts at Money Supermarket point out, motorists might not just cause a serious accident, they could also be left uninsurable. While some motor insurance providers offer cover to individuals with drink driving convictions, annual premiums can rise from £300 to £578.

In many instances, however, car insurance providers will refuse to even return a quote if they are dealing with convicted motorists. Other car insurance firms decline to offer cover to anyone who has been banned in the last five years.

"A conviction could lead to a £1,000 fine, a 12-month driving ban on their licence, and even a possible prison sentence," observes Steve Sweeney, the comparison site's head of motor insurance.

"It is simply not worth taking the risk – the results of doing so can be costly and very damaging," he adds, recommending that anyone planning on driving over the festive period "stick to the soft drinks".

According to Home Office figures, around one in eight motorists has driven after drinking over the limit.

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