Driver was doing 151kmh in 80kmh zone at Ballinea

A driver doing 151kmh in a 80kmh zone on the R392 at Ballinea one of the 4,400 detected for speeding offences in the August Bank Holiday Roads Policing Operation.

In a statement this morning, gardaí said that after five days of the operation, there was two fatalities as a result of traffic collisions on the roads.

The total number of fatalities on Irish roads to date this year is 110.

Throughout the weekend, gardaí conducted statutory Mandatory Intoxicant Testing and regular, high-visibility policing checkpoints. The operation continues today, Tuesday, and so far a total of 169 people have been arrested for driving under the influence of an intoxicant (alcohol and drugs).

Just over 4,400 drivers were detected for speeding offences during the first five days of the operation.

Notable speeds detected yesterday, Monday 3 August, include:

• 78kmh in a 50kmh zone on the R364, Kilkerrin, Co. Galway

• 101kmh in a 60kmh zone on the N52, Kells, Co. Meath

• 151kmh in a 80kmh zone on the R392, Ballinea, Co. Westmeath

• 145kmh in a 100kmh zone on the N7, South Kill, Co. Kildare

During the first five days, just over 370 drivers were detected holding a mobile phone or not wearing a seatbelt.

The road safety enforcement operation focused on the four lifesaver offences in an effort to ensure that all road users get home safe.

1. Speeding

2. Driving under the influence of an intoxicant

3. Using a mobile phone while driving

4. Not wearing a seatbelt

A garda statement reads: “Road safety needs to be a priority for everyone. Slow down and stick 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. You can help get another person home safe this weekend.”