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How does the law stand on us enjoying a drink whilst on a campsite and in the motorhome.

Obviously the morning after/departure is a different matter, as we are allaware

Views statement of the law appreciated.

Interesting question.....never really gave this a thought.

I would have thought maybe it will be classed as a stood vechicle once you have hooked up to your supplies and taken the keys out of your ignition.

 I am sure someone will know the law though.

 Netty

I remember a long discussion about this on a motorhome forum I used to go on.

Consensus of opinion was that when sited on a campsite, keys removed from ignition, it is private land not public highway and the intention not to drive is obvious thus no problem.

Problem could arise if wild camping, especially if for example stopped in a layby or near to a road.

hi rogue camper

the problem comes when mr plod asks you "what would you do if a nearby motorhome/caravan caught fire"

the correct answer is " i would walk/run away to a safe position and see whats left of my motorhome when the gas bottles explode"

after a few drinks the most likely reply is " drive off the site as fast as possible"

gotcha.

this is a rare case in english law. the accused has to prove there is NO liklihood of driving. that's why mr plod asks that question.

mike

hi all

i've been retired for 8 years so my info is not bang up to date. the drink driving laws keep getting slight amendments to try to plug loopholes. since the introduction of the breath test there have been several changes to allow the police to exercise these powers off the road. a pub car park is 'private land' but you can be be breath tested or arrested for drunk in charge there.

hi DandD, a great nickname for the topic under discusssion. i'm also sure the owners & other campers would have something to say about it but how would you stop a drunk driver on a campsite. i guess you might call the police.

hi kiev. the police are unlikely to be on a campsite unless called there by someone and then it would probably take them a few hours to get there these days.  

we were on the CC site at thirsk racecourse about 10 years ago. about 2200hrs we noticed a flashing blue light outside. saw a police car trying to stop a bambi motorhome. the driver appeared to be about 70 and when he eventually stopped & got out he could hardly stand. we left too early the next day to find out what led up to the arrest but it was on 'private land'

mike

Freebird,

I see where your coming from but after the stress of work we all need a drink and it does help to relax us and help us chill. I just think that plod could turn nasty with us MH ppl as your actually in the vehicle drinking