Helpdesk

THIS WEEKAlcohol limits and family-sized cars

From AS: I would like to know if the new 20mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood applies to drivers of small commercials like the VW Golf and Caddy. As far as I can ascertain the following are listed as professional drivers: truck drivers, taxi drivers, bus drivers, cars towing trailers, and tractor drivers. But what about those of us who use the vans for work?

The legislation details the categories of licence holder who must meet the new 20mg standard. These are the drivers of vehicles in category C, C1, D, D1, EB, EC, EC1, ED, ED1 or W.

According to a Garda spokesman, drivers need also to be aware that Category EB would apply to large trailers, like a horsebox or cattle trailer, or even a builder towing heavy materials on a trailer.

The Golf is a Category B vehicle so the 50mg limit will apply. Category B means a vehicle that seats up to eight and has a maximum weight of 3,500kgs. A driver can also tow a trailer loaded to a weight of 750kgs in these vehicles with a B category licence. This should let you drive the Golf, but the Caddy must meet the passenger and weight restrictions. However, be aware that the lower limit also applies to learner drivers, newly qualified drivers for the first two years or those who cannot produce driving licence at the breath test.

From WQ I’ve €15,000 to spend and a 2005 Toyota Avensis 1.6-litre petrol to trade-in. I need a family-sized car and have been offered a 2009 Avensis or a Ford Mondeo of the same age but with heavier mileage. I want a diesel this time. I like the look of the Ford but I prefer Japanese cars for their reliability.

Depending on the mileage and condition of your own car you should get in the region of €6,500 for the trade-in, probably more at a Toyota dealer. I would lean more towards the Ford for looks and driver enjoyment, but taking your

Japanese preference into account and doing a quick search of the used car listings I spotted a couple of 2010 Mazda6 diesels for sale at under €20,000. I’d definitely lean towards these.

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