Almost half of people whose alcohol levels were tested by the RSA mistakenly thought they were under the legal limit.

The Road Safety Authority carried out a six-month breathalyser programme at various venues across the country.

24,000 breathalyser tests were carried out, helping drivers make informed decisions before getting behind the wheel of a car.

David Martin from the RSA said one age cohort was of particular concern.

"What we found was the worst offenders as it were, were young men between the age of 18 and 34," he said.

"They were the most likely cohort to underestimate their alcohol levels and say they were going to drive.

"The data shows that people wrongly assume they are under the limit when they're not, and I suppose the real message is very very simple - if you have a drink just don't drive."

41 have died on Irish roads so far this year.

Main image: Sad drunk man sitting in the car after police alcohol test with alcometer. Image: ronstik / Alamy. 5 May 2020