Gardaí stop learner driver looking at phone on motorway

A LEARNER driver was stopped by Naas Gardaí on the M4 this week after officers observed the motorist using a mobile phone while driving — but that was only the beginning.

Upon further investigation, Gardaí discovered that the driver was operating the vehicle on a learner permit, was unaccompanied by a qualified driver, and had failed to display the mandatory ‘L’ plates.

In addition, the driver was using the motorway — an action explicitly prohibited for learner drivers under Irish law.

Learner drivers face strict rules for a reason, including the fact that accumulating just seven penalty points can lead to a six-month disqualification from driving.

Gardaí are urging all motorists, particularly learner drivers, to be fully aware of and compliant with the rules of the road.

"Learner rules exist for a reason. Know them, follow them, and stay safe," a Garda spokesperson said in a social media post.