Investigation into crash between Defence Forces vehicle and car

As well as the Dublin incident, an investigation is also underway after a van accidently crashed through a wall at Collins Barracks in Cork.

The Defence Forces have launched an investigation into an incident in which one of their trucks collided with a car in Dublin earlier this year.

Video circulating of the incident shows a small car driving down a slip road leading to the M50, near the Red Cow.

While it is indicating right to go to the M50, a large army truck — which is used to haul trailers — travelling on the inside lane nearby also indicates to come off the M50.

But the two vehicles collide, and moments after impact, the light coloured car is seen swerving across lanes before the driver manages to get control of the car and drive it into the hard shoulder.

As well as the ongoing investigation into what happened, the Defence Forces have also engaged soldiers in talks about driver safety.

A Defence Forces spokesperson said: “As a precautionary measure, the Transport Directorate of the Defence Forces issued a directive on January 14 instructing Officers Commanding to conduct "Talks-to-Troops" sessions.

“These sessions, held across all Corps locations, emphasised the importance of maintaining proper driving standards, particularly when operating large and heavy vehicles that require higher levels of concentration and adherence to protocols.” 

It is not known what — if any — injuries either driver sustained.

Blind spot mirrors

Contrary to speculation on social media about the army vehicle not having so-called blind spot mirrors, the army confirmed it did have them at the time of the incident.

A spokesperson said: “The vehicle in question was a G500B 8x8 DROPS, one of 16 such vehicles currently in service in the Defence Forces.

“The vehicle involved in this incident is equipped with appropriate blind-spot surveillance mirrors, including fish-eye mirrors, to enhance visibility, as are all large vehicles in service in the Defence Forces.

“The Defence Forces remain committed to the highest standards of operational safety and driving discipline.

“Investigations into this incident are ongoing, and any findings or recommendations will be acted upon promptly to ensure the continued safety of our personnel and the public.”

They added: “The Transport Directorate of the Defence Forces routinely monitors a wide range of driving activities across all units and levels of seriousness on a weekly basis.

“Unit Commanders across the Defence Forces are continuously tasked with monitoring driving standards among personnel holding military driving licenses.

“They are also responsible for recommending retraining or re-testing as needed to maintain high standards of competency.” 

This is the third known investigation to be launched this year so far into incidents involving army personnel.

An investigation was launched after a soldier was injured while being taught how to fire anti-tank weapons last Thursday.

The incident happened in a classroom at Dublin’s Cathal Brugha Barracks while conducting drills in preparation for firing a Short Range Anti Armour Weapon (SRAAW) under the supervision of instructors.

The soldier was immediately taken to hospital, but later discharged.

An investigation was also launched after an army van crashed through a wall at Collins Barracks in Cork.

Photos circulating on social media showed the Irish Defence Forces Ford Transit Minibus Crew Cab halfway through a wall that backs onto a narrow section of Old Youghal Rd.