Dutch traffic authorities have begun imposing stricter alcohol restrictions on drivers who secured their licences less than five years ago, in an attempt to cut alcohol-related accidents among the young.

The limit is being set at just 20 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood for new drivers of all vehicles. The standard limit for all drivers remains at 50 milligrams.

Fines for drunken driving are also being increased this year.

On an average, around 250 people die on Dutch roads every year in alcohol-related accidents. Officials say young people account for a disproportionate number of these deaths.