Motorists in the North West are being advised to expect an enhanced Garda presence on local roads throughout the June Bank Holiday weekend, as authorities step up efforts to clamp down on drink driving and other road safety offences.
In a coordinated road safety appeal issued by An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority (RSA), drivers are being urged to act responsibly during one of the busiest weekends of the year for travel and social gatherings.
The increased enforcement comes as statistics reveal that 70% of fatal collisions involving drivers occur during off-peak hours, specifically between 10pm and 6am. These hours, according to Gardaí, represent a high-risk window where fatigue, distraction, and impaired driving are more likely to contribute to serious or fatal road traffic incidents.
“We’re appealing to all road users to take extra care this Bank Holiday weekend. If you’re socialising, make arrangements to get home safely. Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. One bad decision can have life-altering consequences,” said Chief Superintendent David Harrington.
The operation will focus on a combination of high-visibility checkpoints, mobile patrols, and roadside drug and alcohol testing. Gardaí will be particularly targeting known black spots and routes with a history of collision-related incidents.
High-Risk Driving Behaviours Targeted
Garda enforcement this weekend will centre on the “Fatal Five” road safety offences:
- Drink and drug driving
- Speeding
- Mobile phone use while driving
- Seatbelt non-compliance
- Dangerous and careless driving
The focus on drink driving comes amid fresh concerns that a growing number of drivers continue to underestimate the risks associated with alcohol behind the wheel, particularly when driving the morning after a night out.
According to RSA research, many motorists still believe they are safe to drive the next day, despite residual alcohol levels in their system.
Road Safety Authority Supports the Appeal
In support of the Garda operation, the RSA has renewed its own call for responsible behaviour, reminding the public that driver fatigue and impaired judgment are significant contributors to road deaths.
Sam Waide, Chief Executive of the RSA, said:
“We want everyone to enjoy their Bank Holiday weekend, but we also want everyone to get home safely. This means planning your journeys, avoiding alcohol before driving, and being alert to the dangers of fatigue, especially if travelling late at night or early in the morning.”
The authority is also urging passengers to speak up if they feel unsafe, reinforcing the message that everyone has a role to play in road safety, not just the driver.
Community Impact and Local Response
Local communities in the North West, particularly in counties Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, and Mayo, are welcoming the stepped-up measures, citing previous holiday weekends where a lack of visible enforcement coincided with spikes in dangerous driving and collisions.
Several community road safety groups have echoed Garda appeals, especially in rural areas where public transport options may be limited. They are encouraging the use of taxis, designated drivers, or local lift-sharing apps where available.
Plan Ahead: Gardaí Urge Responsible Travel Choices
In anticipation of high volumes of traffic, Gardaí are also warning of delays and advising the public to:
- Plan journeys in advance
- Allow extra travel time
- Avoid peak departure times on Friday and Monday
For those unsure about their ability to drive after consuming alcohol, the RSA encourages the use of personal breathalysers or simply erring on the side of caution.
