An Garda Síochána in partnership with the Police Service of Northern Ireland today, 1st December, launched a major joint Anti Drink Driving Campaign, which will be in operation until January 2009. The launch took place on the N13 near Bridgend on the Derry/Donegal border. The launch demonstrates continued collaboration between the Garda and PSNI in the area of road safety and, particularly, in the enforcement of Drink Driving legislation over the festive period.
Speaking at the launch Inspector Pat O’Donnell said, “A minority of drivers continue to selfishly ignore all the advice that has been offered in relation to drink driving. I wish to remind all drivers that the Gardaí will be increasing our focus over the festive period to ensure that anyone drinking and driving will be brought before the courts and disqualified from driving. Enforcement of the drink-driving legislation remains a major priority as part of our ongoing commitment to reducing road casualties.”
The Garda Síochána are conducting over 30,000 breath tests each month. So according to Inspector O’Donnell it’s not a question of if you will get caught drink driving, but when. He also stressed that you may still be unsafe to drive the next morning. For example, after a heavy drinking session, it could take over 13 hours for alcohol to leave your system – that’s lunchtime the next day and people should factor this into any journeys they plan to make over the festive season.
The campaign is backed by the Donegal Road Safety Working Group as part of their ongoing road safety awareness programme. Stephen Lambert, Chairman of the Donegal Road Safety Working Group said, "If you're going out this Christmas with friends, make the most of the festive season, but don't chance drinking and driving. Leave your car at home and don't risk your life and the lives of others”.
As there will be an increase in the number of road users over the festive period the Donegal Road Safety Working Group has also issued the following advice to road users.
Drivers
- Drive at a safe speed appropriate to the changeable wintry conditions
- Do not drink and drive and don’t let others drink and drive. Use an alternative form of transport or appoint a designated driver
- Ensure that all passengers – front and rear – are wearing a seatbelt
- Drive with dipped headlights even during day light hours
- When it is safe to do so always pull in to the roadside to use a mobile phone
- Make sure your vehicle is in good working order, i.e. your lights and brakes are in good working order and your tyres are the proper tread depth (1.6 mm)
- Pre-plan your journey home and take frequent breaks to avoid driving when tired
Pedestrians, Cyclists
- Wear bright clothing or reflective material such as a high visibility vest / Sam Brown belt to be safe and be seen by drivers
- Remember drunken pedestrians are also a danger to themselves. If necessary make arrangements to get home safely if you are planning to walk home after a trip to the pub.