With road deaths so far this year running ahead of 2013 figures for a similar period, the announcement of tighter road-safety rules is timely.
In particular, the closing of the loophole whereby someone who was unconscious or claimed injury could not be tested by gardaí until they had recovered is important.
Now, those suspected of drunk driving, or driving under the influence of drugs, even if injured, will be required to provide blood samples.
Medical staff will be able to take samples from people who are otherwise unable to provide them, with the issue of consent moved to the point where the person has regained the ability to agree to the release of the test results.
A refusal to give consent will be an offence punishable by penalty points or disqualification.
While there is an understandable tendency to focus on drink-driving when road fatalities are discussed, drug-driving is a growing problem.
Chairwoman of the Road Safety Authority Liz O’Donnell drew attention to research showing that those who drove under the influence of drugs believed it was less shaming than drink-driving.
The research also showed a failure among drug-drivers to realise the risks posed by their behaviour.
Part of meeting this awareness challenge is the immediate introduction of simple roadside impairment tests, which are tailored for use on people suspected of driving under the influence of drugs.
The use of machines to test saliva for the presence of drugs will be mandated in updated legislation due to be published in the coming weeks, so gardaí will have a breathalyser-style option that will allow for objective roadside testing of drug levels in a driver’s body.
A name change for the roadside process, from mandatory alcohol testing to mandatory impairment testing, will enhance awareness of the problem of drug-driving.
It is reassuring that the new drug-testing regime will not pose a threat to those taking prescription medicines at a recommended dosage.
Overall, the latest road safety initiatives are most welcome.