Older drivers are more likely to drink and drive than younger motorists, a new RAC survey suggests.

Nearly one in three drivers aged 45 to 64 admitted to driving while potentially over the legal alcohol limit, compared to less than a quarter of 17 to 24-year-olds.

However, the study also found that more than 25% of 17 to 24-year-olds sometimes sent text messages when driving, while 5% said they frequently texted at the wheel.

One in four young motorists said they had been in a car when they believed the driver had taken drugs, while 10% of people aged 17 to 24 admitted driving while they themselves had been under the influence of drugs.

RAC motoring strategist Adrian Tink said: "This year's report clearly shows a generational divide among motorists as regards their vices. Younger drivers have many good habits that bode well for the future of motoring, but their attitude towards drug-driving is worrying."

Aidan Carr, senior partner at Rowlands, added: "Younger motorists – and, indeed, the general public – would benefit from clearer information on the effects of driving under the influence of drugs. This is not least because figures show that the number of fatal accidents involving drugs has increased by 28% in recent years.

"Organisations such as Alcohol Concern believe random breath tests are the only way to completely stop drink-driving. The government, though, is understandably reluctant to approve such a radical measure due to civil liberties issues and an anticipated backlash from sober drivers who would be inevitably stopped and tested."