Gardai Warn Against Hand Gestures While Driving, Citing Careless Driving Laws
Dublin: While raising a hand to greet a friend or acknowledging a courteous driver is common road etiquette, Gardaí have warned that such gestures may now be considered careless driving, potentially resulting in fines and penalty points.
Many motorists instinctively lift a hand from the steering wheel as a sign of gratitude on the road. However, Gardaí are reminding drivers that these seemingly harmless actions can carry legal consequences. Under Ireland’s stricter traffic laws, such gestures can be categorised as careless driving, even if no accident occurs.
Fines and Penalties for Careless Driving
According to the updated regulations, drivers can face:
- An €80 fine and penalty points for driving without due care and attention.
- If the fine is not paid within 28 days, the amount increases to €120.
- If convicted in court, drivers could face a higher fine and four penalty points.
Penalty points and fines apply to various traffic offences, including:
- Running a red light
- Failing to stop at junctions
- Ignoring road signs
- General careless driving
A full list of penalty points and traffic offences is available on the Road Safety Authority (RSA) website.
Reckless and Dangerous Driving Penalties
More severe penalties apply to reckless or dangerous driving, including:
- Serious negligence while driving – Fine of up to €5,000.
- Careless driving causing death or serious injury – Fine of up to €10,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
- Dangerous driving in a public place – Fine of up to €5,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
- Dangerous driving causing death or serious injury – Fine of up to €20,000, imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.
Safer Alternatives to Express Gratitude on the Road
To acknowledge another driver’s courtesy safely, Gardaí recommend alternative gestures that do not require removing a hand from the wheel:
- A slight palm raise while keeping the hand on the wheel.
- A nod of acknowledgement to the other driver.
- Flashing hazard lights briefly (2-3 times) – A common sign of gratitude in the UK.
- A quick left or right indicator flick as a subtle thank-you signal.
By adopting these safer practices, drivers can maintain good road etiquette while adhering to traffic laws, avoiding unnecessary penalties.
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