Gardaí seize car after 17-year-old learner driver caught at 174km/h

Unaccompanied learner driver caught speeding at 174km/h has car seized in Co Laois. Picture: An Garda Síochána Laois Offaly

Laois gardaí have seized a car after an unaccompanied 17-year-old learner driver was detected travelling at 174km/h.

The speed was recorded on the M7 in Co Laois, where the Audi A4 was stopped before being seized and towed away.

Gardaí said the incident could lead to an "awkward conversation", with the registered owner required to apply to the District Court to have the vehicle returned.

In a social media post titled "IS IT A BIRD? IS IT A PLANE?", An Garda Síochána Laois-Offaly said: "No ... it's a 17-year-old unaccompanied learner permit holder travelling at 174km/h on the M7. Not exactly the sort of flying lesson we recommend.

"The vehicle was stopped and promptly seized under Section 109 of the Road Traffic Act.

"Now comes the awkward conversation. The registered owner, whether that's Mammy or Daddy, will have to apply to the District Court if they want the car returned."

Gardaí added: "Handing over the keys to an inexperienced driver doesn't just put lives at risk. It can also leave you explaining to a judge why your car should come home.

"If your son or daughter has recently started driving, have that conversation today. It might be the most important driving lesson they ever receive."