GARDAÍ are warning of a Christmas clampdown on the roads after a dozen drivers were arrested in Donegal in the last week for drink and drug driving.
Eight drivers tested positive for drink-driving while another four for drug driving.
Garda Grainne Doherty warned that gardaí will be out in force operating random checkpoints across the county.
“We would appeal to people not to drink and drive or drive under the influence of drugs.
“We have had another 12 people over the limit for drink and drugs in the past week,” she said.
A number of arrests were also made for speeding offences.
Meanwhile, figures provided to the Donegal News by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) reveal six road users were killed and 26 seriously injured on Donegal roads in the last five years. Nationally, there were 83 fatalities and 709 serious injuries over the Christmas and New Year period.
Gardaí say a major road safety enforcement campaign is now in place ahead of Christmas and New Year.
“Mandatory Intoxicant Testing checkpoints will be conducted around the country, to detect drivers who drive under the influence of either alcohol or drugs or a combination of both. We will also be targeting other offences including speeding, not wearing seat belts and mobile phone use by drivers.”
morning after
One in four drivers admit to driving over the limit the morning after.
If drinking at home, you may be unknowingly drinking larger measures and therefore increasing the risk of being unsafe to drive the following morning. The key is not to take any chances because you could end up losing your licence or worse.
“If you are planning on having a drink this festive season or anytime, remember that alcohol and driving do not mix. Designate a driver, organise a taxi or use public transport. The last thing we want is to have to deliver bad news to any families this Christmas.”
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