DRINK and drug drivers shatter lives – that is the strong message this Christmas from Donegal Road Safety Working Group (DRSWG).
They are urging motorists to never drink or drug drive.
The message in the campaign is that drink driving destroys lives, families and communities.
As the festive season arrives, stark warnings have been issued to road-users about the consequences of drink and drug driving.
The DRSWG are urging drivers to be aware of the affects that alcohol and drugs can have the morning after a night of socialising.
The appeal is for motorists to drive responsibly over the Christmas and New Year period as alcohol and drugs continues to be a significant contributory factor in fatal collisions.
An Garda Siochana have launched their annual Christmas Drink Driving campaign which is supported by the Donegal Road Safety Working Group, as part of their ongoing road safety awareness programme.
To date, 176 people have been killed on Irish roads this year, an increase of 31 compared to the same period last year. Nine people have tragically been killed in Donegal to date this year, an increase of two, compared to both 2021 and 2022.
Inspector Seamus McGonigle said An Garda Síochána does not want to deliver any devastating news to families this Christmas.
“The dangers of drink and drug driving are well documented, and people should be aware that any amount of alcohol or drugs in your system will affect your driving. Driving safely requires a lot of skill and alcohol and drugs will impair your driving ability.
“During this Festive period, we are appealing to all drivers not to put their and other people’s lives in danger by drink and drug driving. 176 people have lost their lives on the roads this year and members of An Garda Síochána have had to deliver this devastating news to their families. We don’t want to have to deliver this news to your family this Christmas.”
Chris Harley, Donegal County Council Road Safety Officer said those who choose to drive under the influence of drink or drugs make the choice to do so.
“I am urging all road users to act responsibly and not to drink or drug drive throughout the Christmas and New Year period. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs doesn’t happen by accident, it happens by choice, and those choices could have devastating consequences, never drive a vehicle when under the influence of drink or drugs. I would also appeal to passengers, not to take a lift from a driver who is not fit to drive, if you do, you are putting your life in the hands of a driver who has no respect for their life or your life.
“Christmas and the New Year is a time for enjoying family, friends, and social events, one second, one wrong decision and it can change yours and everyone’s lives around you forever.”
The DRSWG wishes all road users a happy and safe Christmas and New Year.
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