ASCERT highlights dangers of drink and drug driving after 11.3% rise in road deaths
ASCERT, Northern Ireland’s leading alcohol, drug and mental-health charity, highlights dangers of drink and drug driving amongst young people during Northern Ireland Road Safety Awareness Week 2026
More than 1,100 people were killed or seriously injured on Northern Ireland's roads in 2025, with young people aged 16-24 accounting for one in five casualties.
The figures show an 11.3% increase in road deaths and serious injuries compared with 2024, have prompted ASCERT to highlight the dangers of drink and drug driving as part of Northern Ireland Road Safety Awareness Week 2026.
During the PSNI's Christmas 2025/26 drink and drug driving enforcement campaign, 288 arrests were made for related offences.
Through its Should I Drive? campaign, ASCERT delivers awareness sessions in post-primary schools and youth groups for young people aged 15 and over, highlighting the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and the risks of being a passenger in a vehicle with an impaired driver.
ASCERT Chief Executive Gary McMichael said: “Young people need to understand that getting into a car with someone who has taken alcohol or drugs can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence themselves. One poor decision can have devastating consequences for drivers, passengers, families and communities.
“We want young people to recognise the risks, challenge peer pressure and understand that saying no to an unsafe journey could save a life.”
McMichael welcomed the new Graduated Driver Licensing scheme for Northern Ireland which came into effect on 1 October 2026. The scheme brings additional training requirements and restrictions for new drivers, reinforcing the importance of developing safe driving behaviours.
Schools and youth groups interested in arranging a Should I Drive? awareness session can contact ASCERT at [email protected].