ALERT: Motorists warned of major garda clampdown as schools reopen following summer break

Motorists across the country are being urged to slow down this Monday as a major garda clampdown on speeding is underway to coincide with the first full week of the new academic year.

With all schools now back following the summer holidays and the shorter days beginning to kick in, National Slow Down Day aims to reduce incidents of speeding across the country.

The 24-hour operation, which began at midnight, is supported by the Road Safety Authority and other stakeholders and agencies including local authorities.

"An Garda Síochána conducts several high-profile National Slow Down Days each year, aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of speeding. These operations serve to remind motorists of the serious risks associated with excessive or inappropriate speed, promote greater compliance with speed limits and support efforts to deter and detect dangerous driving behaviours," said a garda spokesperson.

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Gardai say driving above the legal speed limit - or at a speed unsuitable for the local road, weather or traffic conditions - not only endangers the driver but also puts other road users at significant risk.

"Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to respond to unexpected hazards and increases the likelihood of losing control, which can result in serious or fatal collisions. Speeding can have devastating consequences—not just for the driver, but for other innocent road users. The faster a vehicle is travelling, the more severe the impact in the event of a collision," said the spokesperson.

Asssistant Commissioner for Roads Policing, Paula Hilman shares some important information about keeping our young students safe on the roads as they go back to school. #visionzero #roadsafety pic.twitter.com/hIPONewrqk

— RSA Ireland (@RSAIreland) August 30, 2025

As part of National Slow Down Day, there will be an increased garda presence on roads across the country and there will be a number of high profile checkpoints at key locations.

Gardai say they will be highlighting some notable detections throughout the operation.