File photo.
A major roads policing operation carried out by An Garda Síochána over the recent bank holiday weekend has revealed alarming levels of dangerous driving across the country, with one of the most extreme speeding offences recorded in County Tipperary.
The nationwide operation, which ran from 7am on Thursday, April 2 to 7am on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, was aimed at improving road safety during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Despite increased enforcement, the figures released paint a concerning picture of driver behaviour.
READ NEXT: Council seeks further €1.25m funding to clean up large derelict site in Carrick-on-Suir
Most notably, a driver was detected travelling at 138 km/h in a 50 km/h zone on the Cashel Road in Cahir, Tipperary, nearly three times the legal speed limit.
This incident stands out as one of the most dangerous recorded during the operation, raising serious concerns about the risks posed to pedestrians and other road users in built-up areas.
Across the country, more than 4,000 drivers were caught speeding, while over 175 motorists were detected driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
READ NEXT: Tipperary haulier faces €2,500 extra diesel costs a week, councillor told at fuel protest
The operation also coincided with tragic outcomes on Irish roads, with three fatalities and five serious injury collisions reported during the period.
In addition to speeding and intoxicated driving, Gardaí issued hundreds of Fixed Charge Notices for other offences, including over 290 cases of mobile phone use while driving and more than 95 seatbelt violations.
Authorities have reiterated their message to the public: excessive speed remains one of the leading contributors to serious and fatal road collisions.
The incident in Tipperary serves as a stark reminder of how quickly dangerous driving can escalate into life-threatening situations.
An Garda Síochána continues to urge all road users to prioritise safety by obeying speed limits, avoiding distractions, wearing seatbelts, and never driving under the influence.
As traffic volumes return to normal following the bank holiday, Gardaí are warning that enforcement efforts will remain ongoing.
Subscribe or register today to discover more from DonegalLive.ie
Buy the e-paper of the Donegal Democrat, Donegal People's Press, Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles.
Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm.