Drink-driver nearly crashes into gardai as they were arresting drug-driving learner travelling at 174km/h

Gardaí in Cork had a terrifying near-miss when a drink-driver almost crashed into them while they were in the process of arresting a speeding motorist who been pulled over for driving under the influence of drugs.

The incident happened in Crookstown as members of the Cork County Road Policing Unit (RPU) were conducting a checkpoint as part of a dedicated road traffic enforcement operation which is being carried out throughout the Christmas period.

Members of the Cork RPU were on patrol when they stopped a speeding learner driver who was caught travelling at 174km/h. A roadside drug test was then administered which the motorist failed before being placed under arrest at the scene.

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As they were dealing with the learner driver, Gardaí were almost struck by another motorist coming through the checkpoint, Cork Beo report.

This second motorist was pulled over by Gardaí and it was found they were driving under the influence. The motorist was arrested and has since been charged with drink-driving.

The second driver now faces a whole range of consequences - including a day in court. The maximum penalty solely for drink driving is a fine of €5,000 or six months in prison, or both. All drink driving offences will see you put off the road for at least three months.

In these cases, the vehicles involved are also typically seized by Gardaí.

The first motorist was a learner who had been caught speeding at 174km/h while under the influence of drugs

Detailing the shocking incident in a social media post, a Garda spokesperson said: "During a traffic enforcement operation Cork County Road Policing Unit based in Crookstown detected and arrested a learner drug driver exceeding the speed limit.

"As this person was being arrested a drink driver nearly collided with the Gardaí. This driver was arrested by Crookstown Gardaí and charged."

To date, 167 people have lost their lives in road traffic collisions on Irish roads. An Garda Síochána is appealing to all those that will be taking to the roads over the festive period to slow down, take extra care and to give your driving your full attention.

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