Gardaí have arrested a man and taken his car after he was found to be driving while under the influence and ‘racing’ with another motorist in the Fairview area of Dublin.
The two cars were intercepted by the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) Roads Policing Unit with the assistance of Balbriggan Gardaí.
One driver involved in the race was found to be driving under the influence. As a result, his car was taken from him and he was placed under arrest, with future proceedings against him pending.
What is the blood alcohol limit in Ireland?
Blood alcohol limits were reduced in 2011 so that they are in line with European standards. As a result, the drink drive (BAC Blood Alcohol Concentration) limit was reduced to 0.5 (50mg/100mls) for experienced drivers.
The limit for learner drivers and professional drivers is even lower, clocking in at 0.2 (20 mgs/ 100mls).
The penalty for an experienced driver found with a BAC of between 0.5 and 0.8 is a €200 and three penalty points. A BAC of between 0.8 and 1.0 can lead to a driver being disqualified for 6 months from driving, while anything above 1.0 BAC can carry jail time ranging from 6 months to 6 years.
