Statistics prove alcohol testing is a lifesaver

A DRAMATIC downturn in road deaths since the introduction of mandatory alcohol testing has resulted in the saving of 41 Irish lives.

Figures for road deaths up until yesterday show the number of fatalities are down by 21 compared to 2005. Before random breath testing was introduced in July, road deaths were up by 20 on the same period last year. This brings to 41, the number of lives saved.

Statistics for the months leading up to December show continued reductions in fatal road traffic accidents. So far this month eight people have lost their lives in road accidents, compared to a total 40 for the same month in 2005.