A bus driver carrying 40 passengers failed to notice gardaí's flashing blue lights and sirens behind him for over 5km — because he was "distracted".
The incident, which occurred in Kildare, was highlighted by gardaí, who issued a Fixed Charge Penalty Notice including three penalty points.
"Naas Gardaí recently stopped a vehicle after the driver, distracted by a phone call, failed to notice blue lights and a siren behind him for over 5km," gardaí said in a Facebook post.
"What makes this more concerning? The vehicle was carrying 40 passengers.
"Professional drivers have a duty to uphold the highest standards of road safety. Distractions behind the wheel — especially mobile phone use — can have devastating consequences."
While no collision occurred, gardaí warned the potential for disaster was significant.
"Let this be a reminder: stay focused, stay alert, and never use your phone while driving," they added.
Subscribe or register today to discover more from DonegalLive.ie
Buy the e-paper of the Donegal Democrat, Donegal People's Press, Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles.
Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm.