Mandatory crash breath testing comes into force

Mandatory breath testing at road crash sites comes into force from today.

From today, gardaí will be required to conduct a preliminary breath test where they believe a driver has consumed alcohol, or at the scene of a crash where someone has been injured and requires medical attention.

Transport Minister Leo Varadkar said it is a welcome development which will make a significant contribution to road safety.

“Revised blood alcohol concentration levels for all drivers are due to be introduced later this year, including a reduction to 20mgs for learner and professional drivers," Minister Varadkar added.

The minister also said he hoped to bring forward a second piece of legislation to introduce further new road safety measures.

ptions being considered include doubling or increasing penalty points for learner and novice drivers in respect of certain high-risk driving offences, and a requirement for novice drivers who have recently passed a driving test to display ‘R’ plates.