Drink and drug driving warnings issued as road fatalities have increased this year

To date, 176 people have been killed on Irish roads this year, an increase of 31 compared to the same period last year. In Donegal, nine people have tragically been killed to date this year, an increase of two compared to both 2021 and 2022.

An Garda Síochána has launched their annual Christmas Drink Driving campaign which is supported by the Donegal Road Safety Working Group (DRSWG), as part of their ongoing road safety awareness programme.

“Never, Ever Drink or Drug Drive, drink driving destroys lives, families, and communities,” Donegal Road Safety Working Group has said.

“As the festive season approaches, 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 effects 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 continue to be a significant contributory factor in fatal collisions.

“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,” Inspector Seamus McGonagle said.

“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.”

“I am urging all road users to act responsibly and not to drink or drug drive throughout the Christmas and New Year period,” Chris Harley Donegal County Council Road Safety Officer said.

“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.”