The Road Safety Authority is reminding drivers that even minor road offences can lead to an on-the-spot breath test.

The RSA has teamed up with Gardaí to urge people not to drink and drive this St Patrick’s Day.

Drivers are being encouraged to leave their car at home, or arrange a designated driver for a night out.

Brian Farrell of the Road Safety Authority, says Gardai can carry out breath tests on motorists for minor road offences: “So if you are detected using a mobile phone while driving, that is grounds for the gardaí to conduct a roadside breath test.

“We want people to just enjoy the festive period and the weekend and all the activities that are happening in towns and villages across the country and certainly don’t drink and drive.”