In terms of disqualification periods, for those convicted of the new offence of being above the threshold for cannabis, cocaine and heroin with no proof of impairment necessary by the Gardaí, the disqualification period is not less than 1 year for the first offence, and not less than 2 years for the second or subsequent offence.
For the existing offence of drug driving while impaired, there is no change to the penalty or disqualification periods, which are a minimum of 4 years for a first offence and 6 years for a second or subsequent offence.
Driver tiredness and fatigue
You should not drive while tired or fatigued. Research has shown that tired drivers are a major road safety risk, both to themselves and to others.
If you are tired and fighting sleep, you are likely to experience ‘micro sleeps’. These episodes can last up to 10 seconds and can be experienced even when your eyes are open.
During a micro-sleep of even 4 seconds, your car can travel 100 metres (more than the length of a football pitch) without you being in control of your vehicle.
All drivers are at risk from driver tiredness but the following drivers are particularly high risk:
- Night workers
People driving home after a night shift
Lorry drivers
Company car drivers
Men (particularly those aged 18–24 and 50+)
Skilled manual workers
Truck drivers fall into several of the above high-risk groups and need to be particularly careful.
Advice for drivers:
- Never drive if you are fighting sleep.
Prepare yourself for driving by ensuring you get enough sleep.
If you are on any medication, check if it causes drowsiness.