Alcohol detection devices could be introduced into Irish cars
Other EU countries have them in efforts to tackle drink-driving - they have proved 'lifesaving'
With road fatalities on the rise once again compared to last year, research has revealed that one in 10 Irish motorists have drank and drove in the last 12 months.
As of 19 January 2024, there have been 11 people killed on Irish roads - two more than the corresponding period in 2023.
New research by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) shows that one in 10 Irish motorists have driven after consuming alcohol in the last 12 months. Of those who admitted consuming alcohol, the incidence was higher among male drivers (14%).
Antonio Avenoso, executive director of the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) said: “To reach the EU target to cut road deaths by 50% by 2030, it's essential to tackle drink-driving.
“Several EU countries, including Belgium, France, Lithuania and Poland are now addressing this issue by requiring alcohol ignition interlock devices in the cars of those who have engaged in drink-driving, particularly those who do so repeatedly.
“We hope Ireland can join this growing group of countries and introduce this lifesaving, tried and tested technology in the near future.”
Almost one in three (28%) of this group admitted to consuming two or more drinks on the last occasion they drove after consuming alcohol, in the last 12 months.
Saying that the latest statistics confirm that “drink-driving is still a problem in Ireland”, Liz O’Donnell, chairperson of the RSA said: “Drink-driving is a behaviour that must no longer be tolerated in our society.
“Driving under the influence of drink or drugs is a known contributory factor in road fatalities, and we must have zero tolerance to these dangerous driving behaviours. It is very concerning that drivers are still engaging in these behaviours.”
The research also shows that 73% of motorists surveyed agreed that ‘most of my acquaintances/friends think driving under the influence of alcohol is unacceptable’.
In comparison, 85% of drivers surveyed agreed with this statement in 2019. This has been described as “a concerning decline”.
A total of 188 fatalities occurred on Irish roads last year, the highest statistic in a decade and a 21% increase in road deaths when compared to 2022. These numbers are subject to change.