Alcohol, Drugs, and Safe Driving Flashcards

What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for experienced drivers in Ireland?

Answer: 50 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood

The legal BAC limit for experienced drivers in Ireland is 50 mg per 100 ml of blood. Exceeding this limit is a criminal offence and will result in prosecution.

What is the BAC limit for learner, novice, and professional drivers in Ireland?

Answer: 20 mg per 100 ml of blood

Learner drivers, drivers with fewer than 2 years post-test experience (novice), and professional drivers are subject to a lower limit of 20 mg per 100 ml of blood.

If a Garda suspects a driver of drink driving, what test can they require at the roadside?

Answer: A preliminary breath test using a breathalyser

Gardaí can require a preliminary breath test at the roadside using a breathalyser. If this test is positive, the driver is taken to a Garda station for an evidential breath test.

How does alcohol affect driving ability?

Answer: It impairs judgement, slows reaction time, and reduces coordination

Alcohol impairs judgement, reduces reaction time, decreases coordination, and causes overconfidence. These effects begin well before the legal limit — there is no truly 'safe' amount for driving.

Can prescription medications affect your fitness to drive?

Answer: Yes — some medications cause drowsiness, blurred vision, or impaired judgement

Many prescription medications can impair driving ability by causing drowsiness, blurred vision, or reduced concentration. Always read the label and consult your doctor or pharmacist.

What is the consequence of refusing a breath, blood, or urine test when required by Gardaí?

Answer: Treated as if you had exceeded the legal alcohol limit — same penalties apply

Refusing to provide a breath, blood, or urine sample when required by Gardaí is an offence. The penalty is the same as if you had tested over the legal limit.