Drivers to be traced for traffic offences abroad

Irish drivers caught breaking traffic laws in another EU country will be tracked down and punished under new rules — but not for another two years.

In all, eight road offences will be covered, including the four big killers that cause three quarters of road deaths: Speeding; breaking traffic lights; not using seat-belts; and drink-driving.

The other offences are driving under the influence of drugs; using a forbidden lane; using a mobile phone while driving; and, for motorcyclists, not wearing a safety helmet.