Following last year’s successful operation, Galway Gardaí are running Operation Solas again in 2015. They are calling on the public to check their lights to avoid possible minimum fine of €60.
- Operation Solas returns to educate all road users of importance of lighting up during shorter days
- National Road Safety Authority (RSA) figures show 550,000 (20% of all cars on Irish road) fail NCT for defective lighting
- Social media will be utilised to highlight message – fix your lights before you receive fine!
The main objective of Operation Solas is to raise awareness of the lighting regulations amongst motorists and cyclists and educate the public as to the importance of lighting up.
Whether in a car, on your bike, or out walking, it is vital that you are visible to other road users.
The operation will begin on the following dates, and will continue throughout the shorter daylight hours of Winter:
1. Thursday the 26th of November from 7am – Friday the 27th of November at 7am
2. Friday the 11th of December from 7am – Saturday the 12th of December at 7am
The operations will concentrate on detecting all road traffic lighting infringements, including MPVs, trailers and pedal cycles.
We will be utilising social media to highlight the Operation and spread the ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’ message!
Last year, over 106,000 people were reached on Facebook alone.
Figures from the RSA show that one in five cars (20% or 550,000) on Irish Roads failed the NCT for defective lighting. These figures don’t include the many cyclists that fail to light up.
Speaking at Galway District Office, Sergeant Micheal Walsh said:
"With the Winter nights well and truly upon us, it’s vital that all of us that use the roads do so in a safe and responsible manner. During the shorter days, this means lighting up and making sure we are visible to all other road users.
If you’re driving – check your lights, if you’re cycling – grab that bike light on your way out the door, and if you’re going for an evening stroll – put on your hi-vis.
Remember – ‘Be safe, be seen’, and make sure you check your lights and avoid the Fixed Charge Notice”
