New speed limits in the Republic of Ireland aim to enhance road safety. Speed reductions, strict enforcement, and rising penalties now apply.
New speed limits are now in effect in the Republic. They aim to make roads safer for everyone. The changes reduce speeds on many roads.Starting Friday, February 7th, limits changed. Rural local road limits dropped to 60km/h. This was previously 80km/h. The decrease seeks safer conditions for all.
New signs will reflect the lower speeds. The rural limit sign shows 60km/h. It used to mean 80km/h to drivers before.
More changes will occur later this year. Dates are not yet confirmed for this new rollout.
Urban areas will drop to 30km/h from 50km/h. National secondary roads will fall to 80km/h from 100km/h.
Police will strictly enforce these new limits now. They will use various speed detection tools. These include cameras and other equipment.
Exceeding limits brings a €160 fine and three points. Fines increase if you do not pay promptly. Unpaid fines can lead to court summons.
Court fines may reach €1,000 plus five points. Twelve points in three years causes a ban.
These changes address rising road deaths. Fatalities rose from 132 in 2021 to 180 in 2023. Most fatal crashes happened on rural roads. These roads had 80km/h or higher limits.
Lower speeds boost survival chances in crashes. Reducing speeds on roads will save lives. The government aims to reduce road deaths significantly.
The goal is zero deaths or serious injuries by 2050. A 5% speed reduction can cut fatal crashes by 30%. This information comes from the WHO.
Ireland might use more speed enforcement tactics. This includes increased use of speed cameras soon. Some traffic lights could flash red for speeding.
Adopting a system like Portugal’s is possible. Traffic lights turn red if drivers speed there. This forces them to slow down.
The government will launch campaigns to inform you. They will educate drivers on new limits and safety. Police urge drivers to learn updated regulations.
Check with your local authority for local details. This will help for knowing your specific zone.
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