Traffic

On this month’s Crimecall Garda Adrian Corcoran was in studio to discuss An Garda Síochána’s Christmas and New Year Road Safety Campaign, launched, (4th December to 5th January 2021). Viewers were reminded of the focus of Mandatory Intoxicant Testing – detecting those who drive having consumed alcohol or drugs, and the Garda message – do not drive if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs or a combination of both. 

Garda Corcoran spoke of a new trend which indicates that despite a 70% reduction in the volume of traffic during Covid -19 (currently 20%) there has been a rise in detections of Drug driving, with 2537 arrests (133%) increase up on 1192 last year.

Viewers were reminded of the current legal situation regarding the use of E-Scooters in public places, which are considered a mechanically propelled vehicle, (M.P.V). An M.P.V under the Road Traffic Act, must be registered, taxed and insured and the driver must be at least 16 years and the holder of a driving permit or licence. Therefore those in breach can be prosecuted and brought before the courts, as can their parents or anyone who may have purchased the E-scooter.

Finally, viewers were advised as to recent trend referred to as “Ghosting”. This trend challenges persons to lie on the roadway with a sheet placed over them in an attempt to stop oncoming traffic. While this trend is by no means wide spread Gardaí are aware of one incident and therefore want to highlight the obvious dangers associated with it and are asking parents to educate their children.