ROAD SAFETY

Despite popular opinion, summertime is the most dangerous time of the year on our roads. In the summer, when there are no obvious dangers, and the weather is fine and days are brighter, we drop our guard.

Unfortunately, there is a spike in pedestrian, cyclist and motorcyclist casualties over the summer. The fine weather brings more people out and about. As drivers, we need to be on the lookout for them. Slow down and expect the unexpected.

All road users must also be aware of the dangers of alcohol during the summer months too - never ever drink and drive, and always be aware of the dangers the next morning. Alcohol is a factor in 37% of fatal crashes.

At this time of year, there will also be an increase in the number of agricultural vehicles using the road.

If stuck behind a tractor, be patient and don’t be tempted into any foolish or rash overtaking as the tractor might turn suddenly into a hidden entrance up ahead. Always be on the look-out for farm machinery leaving fields and farm yards.

Farmers need to be safety conscious too. If the traffic is building up behind, keep left where safe to allow others pass safely. Drivers of agricultural vehicles are also reminded to be mindful of the following:

• wash down wheels regularly to avoid carrying mud and stones onto the public road
• look out for low bridges, overhanging trees, overhead cables and uneven road surfaces which could cause the load to shift and possibly overturn
• be particularly careful when transporting material such as silage, slurry, sand and gravel and ensure that the load is covered with the appropriate covering such as tarpaulin or netting so that the load does not spill or blow onto the road or onto following traffic posing a road safety risk
• the driving mirrors must always provide an adequate view of the road behind and all agricultural vehicles must have proper working brakes on both tractor and trailer units. All agricultural vehicles must be fitted with working lights, reflectors and indicators
• not to load/overload trailers so as to cause them to be unstable on the road
• do not carry a passenger unless the tractor is equipped to carry one

Large farming vehicles should consider using an escort vehicle to warn other road users and ensure that tractors are driven at an appropriate speed for the road conditions.

Motorists towing a caravan or driving a motorhome need to have adequate unobstructed vision in both car door / wing mirrors. Fit extension mirrors if necessary. Reversing a caravan is difficult. Practise reversing, but make sure it’s done in a safe location and have someone to guide you.

It’s essential that your motorhome or caravan is roadworthy. If planning to use a motorhome, check that it has a valid CVRT certificate.

Children can be carried in rear seats in a motorhome provided they are using the proper child restraint that is suitable for their height and weight.

Passengers can sit in the back of a motorhome provided they are in a seat which is designed to be used while the vehicle is moving.

Ensure the category of licence you hold is appropriate and valid for the size and weight of the motorhome you plan to drive. The RSA has produced a handy booklet and a series of short videos which provide lots of useful information on towing trailers legally and safely. Visit www.rsa.ie for more details.

Both a caravan and a trailer will affect how your car performs and how well you can control it. In particular, towing a caravan increases the amount of fuel your car uses and decreases its ability to accelerate and brake.

You should ensure your vehicle is maintained in a roadworthy condition with a full service being undertaken every 10,000 – 15,000 kilometres. There are also some things you can do yourself:

• lights - Make sure all your indicators and headlamps are clean and working
• liquids - Make sure the water reservoir is up to the maximum mark. You may also need to top up your coolant and screen wash
• oil - Check your dipstick and top up the oil if necessary. Look for signs of leakages on the ground under the car
• electrics - Check your dashboard before and after starting the engine. Listen for a weak battery and replace if necessary
• windscreen wipers - you should clean them regularly and replace them every 12 months
• tyres - Check your tyre treads and pressure, including the spare. The minimum legal limit is 1.6mm
• safety assist - Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual and find out if it has any safety assist technology, for example, ABS
• be prepared - Consider carrying the following: a first aid kit, at least 1 high-viz vest or jacket (fluorescent and reflective), at least 1 red warning triangle and a torch

If you do have to travel during periods of severe or colder weather you should allow extra time for your journey and drive with caution.

While ice and snow pose significant hazards, Hail is a major additional hazard:

• be aware of Met Eireann forecasts as they will put particular emphasis on the possibility of Hail Events in various areas but exact locations cannot be predicted
• be aware that Hail events can occur at any location - even outside of winter months
• be conscious of dark clouds ahead (daylight hours) and be mindful of the first onset of hailstones striking windscreen
• if you do encounter hail, immediately begin to slow your speed - but gradually - and try not to brake
• remember even if the road is salted, hail will stay on the road causing loss of contact between tyres and road surface leading to skidding

Driving abroad can be a challenge. Driving on the other side of the road, dealing with unfamiliar traffic laws, and driving an unfamiliar vehicle can make for a stressful situation. In some countries, you may have to deal with poor roads, inadequate lighting and bad driving.

Always check the Department of Foreign Affairs’ travel advice pages for details about driving in your destination and read the Driving Abroad advice from the AA. You should also remember these simple guidelines:

• bring your full Irish and/or international driving licence and make sure you have appropriate insurance
• never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Depending on where you are, you risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught
• be aware of local traffic laws, including speed limits, and follow them
• driver and passengers must wear seatbelts at all times
• keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags out of sight to prevent bag-snatching if you’re stopped at traffic lights
• drivers with disabilities are recommended to obtain the EU Parking Card. The EU parking permit entitles holders to park in a disabled persons parking space/bay in any EU country. For more information, visit the Disabled Drivers of Ireland Association website

If hiring a vehicle, it is advised not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

If hiring or renting a vehicle ensure it is only from a trusted company that requires a driving license, International travel license and medical insurance.

Motorcycle accidents are common in some destinations. Only experienced drivers should use motorbikes and mopeds.

Further information on being prepared for emergencies when taking to the road, including guidance on vehicle maintenance and repair, and vehicle safety checks can be found on the RSA website.