Motorists in Ireland must adjust to new speed limits starting this week, with significant reductions aimed at enhancing road safety across the country.
Dublin: Motorists in Ireland need to slow down. New speed limits are starting this week. These changes aim to make roads safer for everyone.
From Friday, February 7, the speed limit on rural local roads drops from 80km/h to 60km/h. This 20km/h reduction is meant to protect drivers, walkers, and cyclists. New signs will show the updated limits, replacing the old ones.
This is just the beginning. More changes are coming later this year. Speed limits in urban areas and housing estates will drop from 50km/h to 30km/h. National secondary roads will see a reduction from 100km/h to 80km/h.
Exact dates for these changes are still to be announced. Gardaí will enforce these new limits strictly. They will use handheld devices, speed camera vans, and other monitoring systems.
If caught speeding, drivers face a €160 fine and three penalty points. If not paid within 28 days, the fine increases to €240. After 56 days, unpaid fines could lead to court summons and fines up to €1,000.
Accumulating 12 penalty points in three years results in a six-month driving ban. These changes come as road fatalities have risen, with 180 deaths reported in 2023.
A government spokesperson emphasized that reducing speed can save lives. They are committed to their Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030, aiming for zero road deaths by 2050.
Plans may include more speed cameras and a new system where speeding triggers traffic lights to turn red. Public awareness campaigns will help drivers understand the new rules.
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