New breath test powers will save lives, says RSA

NEW mandatory breath testing for motorists involved in traffic collisions, which came into effect yesterday, will help save lives and prevent serious injuries, according to the Road Safety Authority.

The new power to allow gardaí conduct breath tests for alcohol on all drivers involved in road accidents comes as Transport Minister Leo Varadkar revealed that an expansion of the penalty points system to cover more road traffic offences is also under consideration.

The RSA yesterday welcomed the new power conferred on gardaí, which it described as “life-saving legislation”.