Jurisdiction: Republic of Ireland
Commencement: 17th October 2024
Amends: Road Traffic Acts 1961 – 2024
Mini Summary
The Road Traffic Acts 1961 – 2024 applies to vehicles on public roads.
General requirements for vehicles
Part 2 sets out the general requirements for vehicles including maximum allowable weights, the requirement to weigh certain vehicles, vehicle permits, the requirement to test vehicles, and the powers of the Garda Síochána to examine, inspect and test vehicles.
Driving licences
Part 3 sets out information on the application, granting of and disqualification of driving licences. It also covers certificates of competency.
Speed limits
Part 4 outlines the speed limits that can be applied to public roads.
Offences
Part 5 sets out a series of driving offences. It is an offence to:
- drive a vehicle when suffering from a disease (mental or physical) that diminishes the driver’s capacity to drive, or makes them a danger to others;
- drive under the influence of an intoxicant (alcohol or drugs) to the extent they have improper control of the vehicle;
- drive without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for others using that space;
- drive at a speed or a manner in which is dangerous to the public;
- drive when they are aware that a vehicular defect may make the vehicle a danger to the public; and
- park in a manner that will likely cause danger to others.
- Compulsory insurance of mechanically propelled vehicles
Part 6 sets out the obligation for drivers to be insured when driving a vehicle on a public road.
Control and Operation of Public Service Vehicles
Part 7 allows the Minister for Local Government (‘the Minister’) to make regulations concerning the control and operation of public service vehicles*.
*A public service vehicle is any vehicle used to transport a person for reward (i.e. payment).
Regulation of traffic
Part 8 establishes rules for the regulation and control of traffic and pedestrians in public places. This includes traffic signs and the prohibition of traffic from using footways.
Penalties
Part 9 sets out notices and penalties for committing an offence. It also sets limits for continuous driving.
Amendment
The exemptions applicable to members of Garda Síochána for vehicles and requirements, restrictions and prohibitions relating to the driving and use of vehicles, are extended to include trainees and their instructors.
This amendment has no direct relevance to occupational health and safety matters