More than 5,000 motorists were caught speeding over the course of the Gardai’s St. Patrick’s road safety operation – with the force appealing to drivers to slow down.
An Garda Síochána said on Wednesday that tragically, six people lost their lives in road accidents during the operation – which ran from Wednesday 11th March to Wednesday 18th March.
This brings the total number of road fatalities this year to 38—an increase of six compared to the same date last year.
Mandatory Intoxicant Testing and high-visibility policing for checkpoints were part of the operation, which saw 235 people arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
More than 5,000 motorists were caught speeding, with a further 500 drivers detected for using a mobile phone or not wearing a seat belt.
Notable speeding incidents recorded during the week included:
An Garda Síochána says it continues to appeal to all road users: never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, urging drivers to slow down, remain vigilant and give their full attention to the road.