Worst year for road deaths in more than a decade, with 600 drug and drink-drive arrests in December

"These are people making a conscious decision to take illegal drugs and to sit behind the wheel of a car that weighs approximately a tonne."

"600 people took alcohol or took drugs and still got behind the wheel of a car, putting themselves and possibly their passengers and all other road users at risk."

"In the same period over 4,600 drivers were detected for driving in excess of the speed limit last week... putting everyone on the road in danger."

"If someone is taking drugs or alcohol, call it out - you might actually save their life,"

Gardai are continuing a concentrated road safety campaign until January 5 after one of the darkest years for road deaths in the State. Around 600 people were arrested in December for driving while intoxicated, with 43% arrested for drugs as the primary intoxicant, primarily cocaine or cannabis. Over 4,600 drivers were detected for speeding in the same period, and over 425 vehicles were seized for no insurance. There have been 189 deaths on roads so far this year, the highest number in over a decade. The public is urged to call out anyone taking drugs or alcohol before driving.

Read at Irish Independent