More than 375 motorists have been caught breaking speed limits in the past 72 hours despite repeated warnings about treacherous road conditions during Ireland’s cold snap, gardaí have revealed.
Among the most serious offenders was a Dublin driver clocked at 121km/h in a 60km/h zone on the Navan Road, while in Galway, two motorists were caught driving nearly twice the speed limit on the Dublin Road. Other significant violations included a driver in Donegal traveling at 156km/h in a 100km/h zone.
According to The Irish Examiner, the dangerous driving wasn’t limited to speeding, with 29 drivers also caught under the influence of alcohol or drugs during the same period.
Chief Superintendent Jane Humphries condemned the behavior, stating that drivers showing such disregard for safety are “a menace on our roads,” particularly during the extreme weather conditions when maintenance crews are working to keep roads open.
“As is continuously highlighted, speed limits are not targets,” a Garda spokesperson emphasized, reminding drivers to adjust their speed according to weather, road, and traffic conditions.
An Garda Síochána has pledged to continue enforcing road traffic laws throughout the cold spell while supporting communities in the most affected counties. They join the Road Safety Authority and Met Éireann in urging all road users to slow down and prioritize safety during the hazardous conditions.