A tanker truck driver was arrested for alleged dangerous driving on Ireland’s M7 motorway after concerned motorists reported the HGV swerving between lanes — and Gardaí found an empty Absolut Vodka bottle in the cab’s centre console
Gardai were alerted by motorists on Irelands’ M7 motorway after they spotted a HGV tanker – marked as carrying Flammable Liquids – swerving between lanes and drifting onto the hard shoulder.
When a Road Policing Unit managed to catch up with the tanker lorry and flagged it down, they quickly realised something was amiss with the driver, allegedly spotting an empty bottle of Absolut Vodka in the cab’s centre console.
The driver was promptly arrested – but refused to provide a breath sample at Naas Garda Station. The vehicle was categorised as a tanker for Class 3 Flammable Liquids, which encompasses petrol, diesel, solvents, alcohol and kerosene, posing a significant risk in the event of a serious accident, reports Cork Beo.
Kildare Gardai stated: “Following numerous reports from concerned motorists, Naas Roads Policing Unit intercepted the driver of this HGV after it was observed being driven dangerously on the M7..
“The driver was discovered to be heavily intoxicated and was arrested for Dangerous Driving and Driving Under the Influence of an Intoxicant.
“At Naas Garda Station, the driver refused to provide a breath specimen and was subsequently charged with Refusing to Provide a Blood Specimen, along with three counts of Dangerous Driving.
“The driver is set to face the courts in the upcoming weeks.. Refusing to provide a specimen is a grave offence and carries penalties of a fine of up to €5,000, up to six months’ imprisonment, and a mandatory four-year driving ban upon conviction.
“The HGV was also confiscated under Section 109 of the Road Traffic Act. The registered owner is now required to apply to the Court for its return.
“Driving while under the influence is never a mistake – it’s a conscious choice that endangers innocent road users.
“Thanks to the alertness of members of the public who reported this vehicle, the Gardaí were able to step in before any lives were lost.. If you witness dangerous or suspected drunk driving, report it straight away. Your call could be the one that saves a life”
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