This Easter bank holiday, a significant Garda initiative has been launched to combat both drink and drug-induced driving in an attempt to minimise fatalities. As of Friday morning, road deaths have rose to a total of 55 individuals, marking an increase of 13 from the corresponding period in 2023.
The strategy involves “high visibility policing”, with checkpoints to control speed, enforce seatbelt usage, and crack down on distracted driving and mobile phone use. The broad realm of distracted driving encompasses activities such as eating and excessive attention to dashboard screens, both of which are illegal.
The purpose of this campaign, as outlined by the Gardaí, is to safeguard vulnerable road users and reduce the number of fatal and serious accidents. The St Patrick’s weekend saw 175 drivers arrested for drink driving, over 1,800 drivers caught speeding and around 170 handed fixed-charge notices for mobile phone use while driving.
During the St Brigid’s bank holiday in February, 161 individuals were apprehended for driving influenced by alcohol or drugs, almost 3,000 drivers were caught for exceeding the speed limit, and more than 500 cars were impounded by the Gardaí.
The press office of the Garda pointed out that Irish roads are especially busy over bank holiday weekends. They also noted that these periods level up the risks of road users being part of potentially deadly or significant road incidents. The Garda has also advised motorists to prepare for adverse driving conditions due to forecasted heavy rain, hail showers, and possible isolated thunderstorms. These harsh conditions are expected to persist throughout the weekend.
The Garda campaign commenced at 7am on Thursday before the bank holiday weekend and will carry on until 7am on Tuesday, April 2nd.