Our Mission:
“Safer roads for a safer society”
Introduction
The Drive Aware Programme (DAP) is a dedicated initiative focused on promoting safer driving practices and reducing road-related offences across Ireland. With road safety remaining a critical concern in the country, Ireland continues to experience a higher rate of fatalities compared to many other European nations. Impaired, dangerous, and careless driving are leading causes of these fatalities, and the Drive Aware Programme was developed as a direct response to address these pressing issues.
The programme’s primary goal is to raise awareness of safe driving behaviours and encourage long-term behavioural changes, ultimately helping to reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities on Irish roads. Since its inception, the Drive Aware Programme has garnered strong support from the judiciary across multiple counties. Since 2019, it has also seen an increasing number of self-referrals from individuals eager to improve their driving habits. The Drive Aware Programme has the capacity to significantly lower re-offending rates while offering essential education and rehabilitation for participants.
The Drive Aware Programme is a comprehensive driver education course tailored to address specific driving offences.
It is divided into three key modules:
Alcohol & Drug Driving: This module educates participants on the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It includes topics such as the effects of substances on driving ability, legal limits for consumption, and strategies to avoid impaired driving situations.
The cost for this module is €400.
Dangerous & Careless Driving (Speeding, No Licence, No Insurance, etc.): This module addresses risky driving behaviours, including speeding, driving without a licence or insurance, and distracted driving. It emphasizes the importance of adopting safe driving practices and understanding the severe consequences of reckless behaviour.
The cost for this module is €400.
On-Road Driving Awareness Assessment
The On-Road Driving Awareness Assessment is a practical module that allows participants to apply the knowledge learned in the previous modules under real-world driving conditions. Led by Seán O’Connor, a qualified advanced driver, this assessment focuses on essential driving skills, such as vehicle control, speed management, and risk management. It provides participants with personalised feedback and reinforces the consequences of offences like impaired, careless, or dangerous driving. This module plays a key role in motivating participants to adopt safer, more responsible driving habits.
The cost for this module is €550
Why engage in the programme?
Engaging in the Drive Aware Programme offers you numerous benefits, particularly in terms of self-awareness, behaviour change, and long-term road safety. By attending the program, you will gain a deeper understanding of the underlying causes of your driving offences, such as emotional triggers, peer pressure, or impaired judgment due to substances. This insight will empower you to reflect on your actions, identify your motivations for change, and commit to adopting safer, more responsible driving habits.
The program also equips you with practical tools to manage emotions behind the wheel, make informed decisions, and avoid future offences. By educating you on the legal and personal consequences of the driving offence, you will be better prepared to avoid reckless behaviour and reduce your risk of re-offending. In addition to these benefits, you will receive a comprehensive court report and a certificate of completion, ensuring that your progress is clearly documented for legal purposes. In essence, the Drive Aware Programme fosters a lasting commitment to road safety, ensuring that you not only avoid further violations but also contribute to a safer driving culture for everyone.
Participants Feedback
-
"Before this programme, I didn’t think much about my speeding or risky overtaking. The statistics and real-life examples shared in the sessions really hit home. I’ve learned to slow down and prioritise safety over saving a few minutes on the road."
Emma G., Dublin
-
"The Drive Aware Programme opened my eyes to the real consequences of my actions. I didn’t realise how dangerous even small lapses in judgment could be. Now, I think twice before making any decision that could put myself or others at risk on the road."
Michael D., Galway
-
"I didn’t realise how serious driving without insurance was until this programme. The breakdown of the legal and financial consequences made me see it’s not worth the risk. I’ve since made sure my car is fully insured and roadworthy."
Niamh P., Mayo
-
"I used to justify driving after a few drinks, thinking I wasn’t drunk enough to matter. This course showed me how even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can have serious consequences. I’m now 100% committed to never getting behind the wheel under the influence again."
Mark R., Clare
-
"The tools and strategies I learned to manage my speeding and aggressive driving have been a game-changer. I feel more in control and less tempted to take risks on the road. The programme made me see driving as a responsibility, not a race."
Darren K., Sligo
-
"The programme helped me understand how even recreational drug use can impair driving and put lives at risk. It was the reality check I needed to stop mixing drugs and driving altogether. I feel like a more responsible person now, not just a better driver."
Liam B., Louth
