A new online Traffic Watch reporting form has been launched by gardaí for the public to report dangerous drivers.
This form will replace the Traffic Watch telephone number, which was first set up in 2001 and expanded nationwide in 2004.
The tool is part of An Garda Síochána’s ongoing commitment to road safety and members of the public can report non-emergency traffic-related incidents and aggressive and careless drivers using the online reporting form on garda.ie.
In an emergency situation members of the public should always call 999/112.
It comes after another three fatalities on Irish roads during the August Bank Holiday weekend. 11 serious collisions took place that resulted in 12 people receiving serious and life-threatening injuries.
Through Traffic Watch, the online reports are logged by Garda Staff at the Garda Information Services Centre (GISC) who then forward the report to the Superintendent in the relevant Community Engagement Area to progress.
The Superintendent will appoint a member of An Garda Síochána to investigate a Traffic Watch complaint.
The investigating member makes contact with the complainant to:
• Establish the complainant’s version of events
• Establish if there are other witnesses to the alleged incident
• Discuss the possible actions available
• Take a written statement of complaint.
Where, following the investigation, an offence is believed to be disclosed a file is submitted to the Superintendent who will decide what action, if any, is to be taken.
In all instances, the complainant should be notified of the outcome of their complaint.
Speaking about the new online reporting form, Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, Roads Policing and Community Engagement said, “Traffic Watch has been in existence for over 20 years. Traffic watch has been important over the years in providing an opportunity where responsible and safe road users can report aggressive and careless drivers, empowering responsible road users to work with An Garda Síochána in enhancing road safety for all.
“The online reporting form provides an updated process through which members of the public can be report non-emergency information to An Garda Síochána. In an emergency situation road users should always contact 999/112.”
