Driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal, and the laws are strictly enforced. Depending on how much alcohol you have had, the penalty can range from 1 to 6 years of driving disqualification or potential imprisonment.

Driving after taking drugs or alcohol increases the probability of a crash, which could result in injuries to both yourself and others. The existing limits for fully licensed drivers are 50 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath.

It is also an offence to refuse to provide a sample of blood, urine or breath for evidential purposes. These offences can also result in disqualification of up to 6 years.

Almost 1 in 3 crash deaths in Ireland are alcohol related. It only takes a small amount to impair your ability to drive.

Mobile Phones & Driving Distractions

It is illegal to drive while using your mobile phone in Ireland. Recent studies show that you are 4 times more likely to crash whilst using your mobile phone. It should also be noted that there are penalties enforced by the police for using your mobile phone while driving, with the change in law coming in place on 1st May 2014.

Driver distractions cause accidents and can lead to fatal road errors. Irish country roads are lined with forests and fields, which are home to an abundance of wildlife. Drive at a speed that gives you enough time to stop if an animal runs out in front of your car.

Have a look at our article on driver distractions to see if you are guilty of any of these bad habits.

Our world today demands we give a lot of attention to our mobile phones. However, the risk your taking by answering a call or text could prove fatal for you or others.

Switch your phone off before you begin your journey, this will help you to avoid checking your phone and losing focus. If you do need to check your phone, pull in at a safe area and do so.

Driver Fatigue

Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of accidents in Ireland. People often feel tempted to finish the last part of long journey even though they know they're not feeling completely focussed.

There are a number of tips you can follow to prevent driver fatigue and to keep yourself fresh for those longer journeys:

• Keep your window slightly open. This will ensure there is fresh air in the car and the breeze will keep you alert.

• If feeling drowsy, pull over and grab a refreshment to help you stay alert and therefore less likely to become tired.

• If you are driving with a companion, take turns at the wheel while the other rests (providing your passenger is eligible to drive the car)

• If you're feeling tired and on your own, then simply pull over and take a rest.