Appeal launched as 1 in 4 drivers admit potential over-the-limit driving morning after night out

Provisional figures show that 42 lives have been lost on Irish roads to date this year, three (3) more than on this date last year.

An Garda Síochána and the RSA are reminding all road users to never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Ahead of the national holiday, motorists and pedestrians are reminded to plan ahead and organise a safe away home ahead of celebrating over the coming days.

A garda spokesperson has said: "This means leaving the car keys at home and agreeing on a designated driver, booking a taxi, or taking public transport.

"Pedestrians are being cautioned not to walk home after a night out, especially in areas where there is low visibility."

The appeal comes as the Driver Attitude & Behaviour Survey 2023 shows nearly a quarter of drivers have admitted there were times where they may have been over the limit when driving the morning after a night out.

The survey, commissioned by the RSA, also found that one in four motorists believe that driving short distances after having a drink is acceptable.

To coincide with its Bank Holiday appeal, the RSA is encouraging people to speak up and express their concerns about their loved ones’ behaviour on the road.

The RSA’s ‘SAY IT’ campaign urges people to ‘SAY IT’ when they see any worrying behaviour. The campaign targets girlfriends, boyfriends, partners, sisters, teammates, classmates, sons, daughters to speak up, and will run over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Mr Jack Chambers, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, said: "I am deeply concerned by the findings that people have admitted to driving while they may have been over the limit after a night out. This bank holiday weekend I am urging motorists to make responsible choices before getting behind the wheel after celebrating St Patrick’s Day.

An Garda Síochána Assistant Commissioner Roads Policing and Community Engagement, Paula Hilman said: "The reality is that this risk further increases during bank holiday weekends. We all have a personal responsibility to prevent road fatalities and serious injury road traffic collisions, and we must work together.

"Please slow down and drive at an appropriate speed, always wear your seatbelt and do not allow yourself to be distracted by a phone while driving.

"There are consequences to these actions and poor driver behaviour – some more lasting than others. You could lose your licence and face significant financial penalty, but far worse is the possibility of seriously injuring or killing someone else on the road.”

This St Patrick’s Bank Holiday Weekend drivers are also being reminded that the RSA and participating Applegreen service stations are providing free cups of coffee to motorists to combat driver fatigue. The offer is available from 2-8pm from Friday, March 15 to Monday, March 18.