As winter is nearly upon us, the Road Safety Authority (RSA ) is asking road users to make sure they are ready for winter road conditions.
Noel Brett, chief executive, advised: “Driving during the winter months creates a multitude of different challenges with more hours of darkness and poorer weather conditions. Extreme weather is also a particular hazard at this time which can range from freezing fog, gale force winds, heavy rain, flooding, and ice and snow.”
He urged drivers to service their vehicles and check them to ensure they are ready for the winter ahead.
Mr Brett added: “The key this winter is to slow down and remain a safe distance behind the car in front of you. Using dipped headlights too during the daytime will make it easier for other road users to see you, so don’t wait for darkness.”
Pedestrians and cyclists were also encouraged by Mr Brett to get ready for winter. “To be safe on the roads at winter a pedestrian or cyclist must be seen. That means ensuring the lights on the bike are working properly and using a torch when out walking. A high-visibility jacket is also an essential piece of clothing which will ensure you stand out in traffic. Pedestrians are also reminded to use footpaths where provided, if there is no footpath walk facing oncoming traffic and never walk on a dual carriageway or motorway, use pedestrian crossings where provided.”
There are a number of simple precautions the RSA advises for driving over the winter months: Use your lights; check your tyres, they are your only contact with the road; drive a safe distance from the car in front; understand your brakes; make sure you can clearly see; be prepared.
During these winter months it is advised that motorists carry a number of essentials in the boot of their car, should severe weather strike again this year. These include high visibility vest; appropriate footwear in case you need to leave your vehicle, eg, boots; a hazard warning triangle; spare wheel; tow rope; a shovel; de-icing equipment (for glass and door locks ); spare bulbs; first aid kit; a fire extinguisher; a working torch; a car blanket, additional clothing, and some food and water. It is recommended that drivers keep their fuel tanks topped up especially in times of adverse weather conditions. You do not want to run out of fuel on a journey in bad weather.
Be aware of black ice and listen to local weather and traffic reports. Pay heed to weather warnings.
The Road Safety Authority has set up a special section on its website rsa.ie to provide the public with information on using the road safely in the event of extreme weather conditions. For further information see RSA severe weather advice.
Road users can also get up to date information and be informed of any road safety alerts issued by the RSA by following it on Facebook (Road Safety Authority Ireland ) and Twitter @RSAIreland.
