Gardai in Carlow have hit out at a driver for parking on the footpath as traffic had to be stopped in both directions to help a passerby.
Sharing an image on social media, officers confirmed that the driver was handed a Fixed Charge Notice for the offence after a wheelchair user was left stuck on the side of the road.
In a post on social media, they confirmed: “Carlow RPU observed this van parked on a footpath in Carlow Town and buggies being pushed onto the road to get around.
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“Meanwhile, a wheelchair user approached Gardaí for assistance to pass the van. Traffic had to be stopped in both directions to allow this lady go by.
“FCPN issued.”
The RSA reminds the public that “Illegal parking results in blocked footpaths, meaning vulnerable road users such as wheelchair users, the visually impaired, people with buggies, children and older pedestrians do not have adequate room to walk safely, potentially forcing them out onto the road.”
From February 1, 2022, the penalties for motorists who park on footpaths, cycle tracks, and bus lanes increased as the number of drivers parking illegally increased.
The fixed charge notice was doubled from €40 to €80 for anyone caught parking on footpaths, cycle tracks and bus lanes.
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