Blood samples can be taken from all drivers involved in road crashes from today - including those who cannot give consent.

The measure is part of tighter road safety regulations which come into effect today ahead of Christmas.

Minister for Transport Pascal Donohoe will announce the closure of a loophole, which allowed drunken drivers to avoid blood tests through being unconscious or by claiming injury, at the launch of the annual Christmas road safety campaign.

The new rules will also give the Gardai additional powers to test drivers who they suspect are driving under the influence of drugs.