3 days ago
Warning as new automatic €160 fines to be issued without Garda interaction
Drivers are being warned of a new initiative being rolled out between An Garda Síochána and Iarnrod Éireann which could see an automatic fine of €160 handed out for rule breaks.
Last week it was revealed that there were plans for six Garda Go Safe safety cameras to be put in place at railway level crossings across the country.
The cameras will monitor motorists and automatically issue fines of €160 for speeding or running a red light (€80) as well as administer penalty points on your licence. Drivers are being warned of a new initiative being rolled out between An Garda Síochána and Iarnrod Éireann which could see an automatic fine of €160 handed out for rule breaks. Pic: Getty Images
The new measure comes into effect after it was revealed there were at least 30 incidents of misuse of the crossings recorded to date in 2025.
The level crossing on Serpentine Avenue in Dublin is the most frequent spot for accidents with five happening this year. This was followed by Sutton, where three incidents occurred.
Eleven of the incidents resulted in damage to the crossing or injury to the person using the crossing, with the majority of accidents seeing vehicles collide with the crossing gates.
Today is International Level Crossing Awareness day ⁰⁰We will be hosting user education days at various crossings around the country in conjunction with @gardatraffic, @RSAIreland and @DubCityCouncil ⁰⁰#AlwaysSafe #ILCAD — Iarnród Éireann (@IrishRail) June 5, 2025
CCTV from level crossings across Ireland was shared via Irish Rail highlighting the shocking level of accidents taking place at level crossings.
There are currently 861 level crossings on the Irish Rail network nationwide with the train service currently working to eliminate as many as practicable. Since 2014, 134 have been closed.
Irish Rail said: 'This new measure aims to reduce risky behaviour and protect not only motorists but also pedestrians and cyclists using the crossings.
'Initially, the cameras will operate in test mode before becoming full active. Their locations may change depending on driver behaviour.'
Speaking on RTÉ Radio 1's Morning Ireland on Monday, journalist Fergal O'Brien explained that the cameras were initially operating in a test phase and would record inappropriate use of level crossings.
He explained: 'The cameras will automatically issue a fine of €160 for speeding and €80 for breaking a red light, with the motorist also liable for three penalty points.'
