Motorists urged to be extra vigilant

Almost 30 fewer people have died on the roads so far this year than in the same period last year according to Garda statistics, but the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is warning motorists to be extra vigilant over Christmas.

With just 10 days to go to the end of the year, there have been 360 fatalities on the roads compared with 387 to the same date in 2005. The RSA is now renewing its appeal to never drink and drive.

"The majority of people in this country do not drink and drive but a small minority do drink and drive," said RSA chairman Gay Byrne. "They show a total disregard for themselves and others whom they may kill or seriously injure as a consequence of their irresponsible action."

He asked people to plan ahead when going for a drink over Christmas and the new year and to get a taxi, use public transport or designate a driver.

He also urged people to remember that it may be unsafe to drive the following morning, as it can take more than 13 hours for alcohol to leave the body.

"The Garda Síochána are conducting over 30,000 breath tests each month, so it's not a question of if you will get caught drink driving, it's a question of when. And when that happens, you will lose your licence," he said. "Just one drink affects driving."

The RSA reminded motorists to be aware of "revellers" and "drunken pedestrians" and asked pedestrians to make arrangements to get home safely if they are planning to walk home from the pub.

Motorists are also advised to drive at a speed appropriate to wintry conditions.

Commercial radio stations are also running a Christmas alcohol awareness campaign, with advertisements that promote sensible drinking being aired during programmes with a youth-based audience.