Longford gardaí targeting drivers using mobile phones

As part of a nationwide campaign taking place today and tomorrow, gardaí in Longford are on the lookout for drivers using mobile phones while on the road.

“We will be performing checks at random locations,” a garda spokesperson told the Longford Leader.

“Over the next two days, gardaí in Longford will be putting emphasis on detecting drivers using mobile phones.”

The spokesperson added that a “small number” of drivers have been caught so far, although no exact figures are available. However, so far today approximately 300 people around the country have been caught using their phones while driving by mobile patrols.

Gardaí are carrying out the operation in advance of new regulations due to be introduced next month, which will make it an offence to hold a mobile phone or to read or send text messages while driving.

Drivers found talking on the phone will have two penalty points added to their licence and will be issued with a €60 fine which must be paid within 28 days. If the payment deadline is missed, this will increase to four penalty points and a fine of €90 to be paid within 56 days of the incident.

Sending or reading a text while driving will result in a fine of up to €1,000 for a first offence.