More than 200 drivers caught without seatbelt or holding mobile phones

Ellen O'Donoghue

Over 200 drivers have been detected holding a mobile phone or not wearing a seatbelt since Thursday.

Gardaí also said that 77 people have been arrested so far for driving under the influence.

It comes as part of a Garda Roads Policing operation for the May bank holiday weekend, which runs until Tuesday.

A man in his 30s was hospitalised with serious injuries after an overnight collision in Mayo.

However, there have been no road deaths over the weekend so far.

A total of 55 people have died on Irish roads this year.

Over 1,700 people have been caught speeding since Thursday morning, an increase of 500 since the last figures were released on Saturday.

Gardaí have said they are conducting both statutory mandatory intoxicant testing (MIT) and regular checkpoints over the course of the weekend.

Notable speeds detected on Saturday include:

• 80 km/h in a 50km/h zone on the R183, Dernaglug, Doohamlet, Co Monaghan
• 97 km/h in a 60km/h zone on the N52, Barfordstown, Kells, Co Meath
• 105 km/h in an 80km/h zone on the N2, Carrigans, Emyvale, Co Monaghan
• 139 km/h in a 100km/h zone on the N72, 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," a garda statement said.

Gardaí have also urged road users to take extra caution around vulnerable road users, in particular 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," the garda statement continued.

Walking home or cycling under the influence of alcohol or drugs can also put you and other road users at risk, gardaí warned.

Cyclists and pedestrians have been reminded to stay visible and observe their surroundings at all times.