As we approach St. Patrick’s Day 2010 An Garda Síochána urges all motorists to make a special effort to drive responsibly.
During this period An Garda Síochána will continue to focus enforcement on driving while intoxicated, speeding and the use of mobile phones while driving.
The aim of this enforcement is to enhance compliance with road traffic legislation by increasing the likelihood of detection, extensive use will be made of Mandatory Alcohol Testing checkpoints.
The message to drivers is:-
Never drink and drive
Nominate a person to drive who will not drink, otherwise use public transport, taxis or hackneys if going out for a drink.
An Garda Síochána is appealing to motorists to respect the speed limits and exercise greater personal responsibility for their driving behaviour thereby protecting their own lives, their passengers and all other road users. Drivers should make sure that they drive at speeds suitable to the conditions, weather, traffic, road surfaces etc. bearing in mind that some roads have been badly affected by recent weather conditions and even driving at the speed limit may be too fast in such cases.
Those going on long journeys should note that tiredness contributes to road fatalities and injuries and so journeys should be planned in advance. Drivers should stop in a safe place if they feel tired and take a short nap or break away from the road.
Fog lights should only be switched on when weather conditions require their use and motorists should remember to switch them off when they are not needed as they can interfere with other road users.
Over the St. Patrick’s Day period of 2009 (from 13th March to 17th March inclusive) the following were recorded:-
379 incidents of driving while intoxicated
2,706 incidents of speeding
213 incidents of non use of seatbelt
320 incidents of driving while holding a mobile phone.
Garda Press Office.
