The number of drivers caught using mobile phones behind the wheel continues to climb, with nearly 60,000 motorists receiving fines and penalty points for the offense over the past three years, according to new Department of Justice figures.
From 2022 through 2024, gardaí detected 59,603 instances of drivers illegally using phones while operating vehicles, highlighting an ongoing road safety concern despite increased enforcement efforts.
The data, released during a bank holiday weekend enforcement campaign, shows the persistent challenge authorities face in curbing distracted driving behaviors that significantly increase collision risks.
Road safety officials have repeatedly emphasized that using a mobile phone while driving dramatically reduces attention to road conditions and slows reaction times, comparing the impairment level to that of driving while intoxicated.
The rising infraction numbers come despite substantial penalties for the offense, which currently include an automatic fine and penalty points that can lead to license disqualification when accumulated.
Garda enforcement operations typically intensify during bank holiday periods when traffic volumes increase and collision risks are statistically higher, with mobile phone use remaining a priority target alongside speeding and drink driving offenses.
The continued upward trend in detections has prompted calls from road safety advocates for stronger deterrents and enhanced public awareness campaigns about the dangers of distracted driving.