Gardai say that over 200 drivers were caught without seatbelt or holding mobile phones since Thursday

Over 200 motorists have been identified using a mobile phone while driving or failing to wear a seatbelt since Thursday, reports Breaking News.

Gardaí also stated that 77 individuals have been arrested for driving under the influence, reports Breaking News.

It is part of a Garda Roads Policing operation for the May bank holiday weekend, which is continuing until Tuesday.

A man in his 30s was taken to hospital with serious injuries following an overnight road collision in Mayo, reports Breaking News.

Despite this, there have been no fatalities on the roads over the weekend so far.

A total of 55 people have lost their lives on Irish roads so far this year, reports Breaking News.

More than 1,700 drivers have been caught speeding since Thursday morning, marking an increase of 500 compared with figures released on Saturday.

Gardaí said they are carrying out both statutory Mandatory Intoxicant Testing (MIT) and routine roadside checkpoints throughout the weekend, reports Breaking News.

Notable speeding incidents recorded on Saturday include:

• 80 km/h in a 50 km/h zone on the R183 at Dernaglug, Doohamlet, Co Monaghan
• 97 km/h in a 60 km/h zone on the N52 at Barfordstown, Kells, Co Meath
• 105 km/h in an 80 km/h zone on the N2 at Carrigans, Emyvale, Co Monaghan
• 139 km/h in a 100 km/h zone on the N72 at Knockanimrish, Killarney, Co Kerry

“Gardaí will be placing a particular emphasis on detecting those driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs this weekend. At no point is it safe or acceptable to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after having an intoxicant like alcohol or drugs”, reports Breaking News.

Gardaí have also appealed to all road users to exercise extra care around vulnerable groups, especially pedestrians and cyclists.

“Motorists are reminded to always drive within the speed limit. Always wear a seatbelt and never use a mobile phone when driving. Keep distractions out of the vehicle and put your full attention on the road”, reports Breaking News.

They also warned that walking or cycling under the influence of alcohol or drugs can pose serious risks to both the individual and other road users.

Cyclists and pedestrians have been urged to remain visible at all times and stay alert to their surroundings, reports Breaking News.

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