Gardai fine 15 drivers in one fell swoop for common offence as others warned

Fifteen drivers were hit with fines over the weekend for the same offence as gardai issue a warning to other drivers.

The roads policing unit was on patrol in Dundalk when they came across a large number of cars parked illegally next to a sporting event.

As a result of their choice of parking space, pedestrians were forced to use the road to walk on - as the path was blocked.

READ MORE: Garda checkpoints: Special operation sees three vehicles seized in Midlands as officers warn criminals

Officers gave every single car - a total of 15 - a fixed charge notics, because there was “parking freely available at nearby car parks.”

Taking to social media with images to warn others, a spokesperson said: “Gardaí in Dundalk found a large number of cars parked illegally yesterday near a sporting event, blocking footpaths and causing pedestrians to use roadway.

Gardai fine 15 drivers in one fell swoop for common offence as others warned (Garda Traffic Twitter)

“Parking was freely available at nearby car parks.

“15 FCPNs issued to owners.”

According to Irish law, since February 1, 2022 the penalties for motorists who park on footpaths, cycle tracks and bus lanes have increased.

The fixed charge notice was doubled from €40 to €80 for motorists caught parking on footpaths, cycle tracks and bus lanes.

Speaking at the time of this change, an RSA spokesperson said: “Motorists are being asked to understand the impact illegal parking can have on other road users and that they have a responsibility to ensure their vehicle is parked safely at all times.

“Parking in a dangerous position, even if it is only for a short period, is unsafe and illegal.

“This is a road safety issue as pedestrians are being put in danger, potentially in the path of cars, buses, or cyclists.

“I am calling on all drivers to take responsibility for their actions and be more considerate of all road users including the most vulnerable.”

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