Road safety professionals are appealing for people observing Lent to give up one more thing - bad driving.

Galway and Mayo local authorities are urging motorists to examine their driving habits.

Noel Gibbons, road safety officer with Mayo County Council said: "People tend to give up those bad habits that they enjoy, like eating too much chocolate or crisps, or maybe drinking too many cups of coffee before getting into work.

"The road safety group is asking people to think about the way they drive and use Lent as a reason to kick their bad habits off the road forever."

Deirdre Caulfield Road safety Officer Galway County Council Said: "We want all road users to change their behaviors this Lent and make these changes part of their lives in the future, which will save lives and reduce serious injuries on our roads."

Some bad habits drivers are being asked to give up include speeding: It is estimated that one in three crashes is speed-related. Make sure you are always aware of speed limits and keep to them, being especially cautious on unfamiliar roads.

Phoning while driving: It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving, even while stopped at traffic lights, and the consequences of doing so can be fatal. So always turn it off before you set off.

Driving tired: If you do, you are putting yourself and everyone else on the road at risk. Stop for a 15-minute break every two hours. Try to avoid long trips between midnight and 6am when your natural reactions are likely to be slower.

Tailgating: You should always leave at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front.

Jumping traffic lights: People have been killed and seriously injured when drivers have been too impatient to wait for a traffic light to change from red. Always obey the signals for your own and others' safety.

Driving without your seat belt: It is illegal not to wear a seat belt while travelling in a car. Seat belt wearing saves lives every year.

Road rage: Why not think of others for a change, be patient and calm down. Would letting someone pull out in front of you, or saying thank you cause you any extra hassle?