Fatal collisions in Ireland rise while Garda operations detect high speeds in Limerick.
A GARDA Roads Policing operation has been in place since Thursday, October 22, which includes both statutory Mandatory Intoxicant Testing checkpoints and regular, high-visibility policing checkpoints.
Three days into the operation, there have been two fatalities as a result of two fatal collisions on roads. The total number of fatalities on Irish roads to date this year is 153.
High speeds were noted on two Limerick roads yesterday, October 24. The R520 in Newcastlewest was recorded to have 121km/h in the 80km/h zone, and the N18 in Ballinacurra Weston was recorded to have 139km/h in the 100km/h zone.
Over 2,311 drivers were detected for speeding offences during the first three days of the operation.
A total of 77 people have been arrested to date under this operation for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. More than 250 drivers were detected holding a mobile phone or not wearing a seatbelt.
An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority are urging all road users to support their efforts to keep people safe on the roads this October bank holiday weekend. They are asking road users to be mindful around vulnerable road users, in particular pedestrians and cyclists.
Gardaí warn, “Slow down and adhere to the speed limit. Never drive under the influence of drink or drugs. Wear your seatbelt and don’t get distracted by mobile devices when you are driving.”
The Garda Roads Policing operation will continue throughout the bank holiday weekend until Tuesday, October 27.
“All road users have a part to play in people arriving at their destination safely this weekend.”