Unlike conventional speed cameras that capture a vehicle’s speed at a single point, these average speed cameras calculate a vehicle’s speed over a designated stretch of road. This method involves capturing the speed between two points—ensuring drivers maintain a safe speed throughout their journey rather than just at camera locations.

Anyone caught speeding between the designated points on these roads will face a fine of up to €160 and receive three penalty points on their license. This enforcement is backed by the advanced automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology, which meticulously records the time, date, and vehicle details at both entry and exit points of the monitored zone.

The decision to implement these average speed cameras follows the success of similar setups on the M7 motorway and in Dublin’s Port Tunnel, where they have notably helped reduce average speeds and, consequently, road accidents. An Garda Síochána has confirmed that the chosen locations for these cameras are sites with a history of traffic incidents, including serious and fatal collisions, underscoring the need for consistent speed monitoring.

This initiative is part of a larger rollout that includes the introduction of three average speed camera systems and nine static speed cameras across various locations. Further details about the additional camera sites are expected to be announced soon.

The enforcement of these systems will commence at noon this Friday, with Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris scheduled to officially inaugurate the operation. This move is a clear stride towards altering driving behaviors, reducing average speeds, and enhancing the safety of all road users in Ireland.

The design of this high-riding tractor unit offers Gardaí an unparalleled vantage point to oversee not just regular cars but also to peer into the cabs of large trucks, catching drivers who engage dangerously while driving. From mobile phone usage to more reckless behavior like watching Netflix, the Gardaí’s new tool catches them all.

Garda Inspector Peter Woods highlighted the diverse range of offenses spotted by this lorry. “We’ve observed everything from drivers steering with their knees to others distracted by digital devices,” he commented. These acts, though not specifically named under traffic laws, contribute significantly to hazardous driving conditions and, potentially, deadly accidents.

The lorry operates with a team, including ‘interceptor’ cars that pull over the offenders, allowing the lorry to continue its patrol uninterrupted. This effective strategy was in full display when a truck driver, already close to license suspension with nine penalty points, was caught without a seatbelt by Sergeant Rob Griffin. Despite initial denials, the driver admitted to his mistake when confronted with undeniable evidence of his actions captured from the lorry.

This new enforcement strategy comes at a crucial time as road fatalities in Ireland have slightly increased from last year, with current figures standing at 131 deaths. Sergeant Griffin, who often faces the daunting task of notifying families about road-related deaths, emphasized the emotional challenge of such duties and the unique response each family member has to such heart-wrenching news.

The effectiveness of the Garda’s unmarked lorry is already evident with successful operations in areas like Naas and Dublin, signaling a potential expansion to other regions. This approach not only enhances road safety but also serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of abiding by road rules.