2010 News

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11 January 2010

Road Safety Alert for Kerry, Cork, Wexford and Waterford

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has issued a road safety alert to road users in Counties Kerry, Cork, Wexford and Waterford as Met Eireann warns of Gale-force winds and heavy rain fall over the next 24 hours.

This forecast combined with melting snow and ice will make the roads very treacherous.

Met Eireann have forecast heavy rain developing later tonight and continuing through much of Tuesday. Strong to gale force southeast to east winds too, with gale to strong gale force winds on the coasts. Up to 40 to 55 mm of rainfall is expected.

The RSA has issued the following advice to road users;

Monitor radio weather and traffic broadcasts while travelling and heed any Garda messages.
It takes longer to stop a vehicle on wet roads so slow down and allow extra distance between you and the vehicle in front. The 2 second rule becomes the 4 second rule in bad weather and poor visibility according to the conditions.
Take special care when driving behind goods vehicles as they generate a considerable amount of spray which reduces your visibility, hold back to where you can see their mirrors.
Watch out for falling/fallen debris on the road and vehicles veering across the road and the reaction of other road users.
Control of a vehicle may be affected by strong cross winds. High sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds.
Flooding and slippery road surfaces make driving particularly hazardous so always drive with care and caution. Expect the unexpected.
Be mindful of surface water. You don’t know how deep it is and it may contain hidden objects that could cause you to stall or damage your tyres.
Be mindful of Aquaplaning on roads. Aquaplaning occurs where the tyre thread fill with water and is unable to disperse it.
After going through water, drive slowly with your foot on the brake pedal for a short distance - this helps to dry the brakes.
Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists and allow extra space.
Driving in such conditions will result in reduced visibility. Use dipped headlights.
Check tyres, including the spare to ensure minimum tread depth of 1.6mm and guarantee correct tyre pressures.

In flooded Roads;

Try to avoid crossing a road covered in water. Wait until the water level drops or use an alternative route.
If the road ahead is flooded choose another route, do not attempt to drive over it. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think. It is easy to underestimate the power of fast moving water.
Watch out for washed out roads, earth slides, broken water or sewer mains, loose or downed electrical wires, and fallen or falling objects.
Be aware where rivers or streams may suddenly rise and flood, for example highway dips, bridge, and low areas.

Severe Weather Advice for Road Users