Drink driving young men a real problem, says RSA

Road safety bosses have warned there is a “real problem” with young males drinking and driving, as figures show alcohol was involved in almost four out of 10 fatal collisions.

Transport Minister Shane Ross described the figures as “pretty shocking”, saying there was “little doubt” the figure had gone up further since the analysis.

A detailed report by the Road Safety Authority, examining fatal collisions between 2008 and 2012, found alcohol was a “contributory factor” in 38% of cases involving drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Drivers of cars and motorcycles were involved in 29% of all cases, and three out of four of these were aged between 16 and 34.