Over 1,300 motorists arrested for drink and drug driving in just TWO months

Over 1,300 motorists have been arrested for drink and drug driving in just two months. 

That's according to An Garda Síochána, which today (March 19) confirmed the significant figure - which covers the months of January and February 2024 - in a social media post urging people not to get behind the wheel while under the influence. 

Figures for March 2024 have not yet been released by An Garda Síochána. 

The newly released figures mean an average of one road death every 

In today's Facebook post, a Garda spokesperson posted a video warning people against driving under the influence alongside the accompanying caption: "Every time you get behind the wheel under the influence it's not just your life you're risking. Why chance it?" 

Forty five people have lost their lives on Irish roads so far this year (accurate to 9am, March 19) in 42 collisions. 

This includes18 drivers, 14 passengers, nine pedestrians, three motorcyclists and one pedal cyclist. 

Five more deaths have taken place between January 1 and March 19 compared to the same period last year, when 40 deaths were recorded as a result of 37 collisions.