24 December 2010
Thaw will present even more challenges for road-users
Despite a forecast for an improvement in the weather conditions nationwide, from St. Stephen’s Day 26th December, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is warning road users that road conditions will continue to be treacherous in most parts of the country.
The warning comes today, Christmas Eve, 24th December, as many people are taking to the roads to get home in time for Christmas. While the country is still gripped by artic conditions. Mr. Noel Brett, Chief Executive, Road Safety Authority repeated his plea for road-users to take extreme care in these conditions.
However when the thaw does set in Mr. Brett advised that “There is a danger that road-users and particularly motorists will be lulled into a false sense of security as conditions improve after the recent freezing conditions. Roads right across the country will remain extremely dangerous with lingering patches of snow and ice posing serious risks for all road-users.”
“The expected thaw will present even more challenges for all road-users. The main danger will be from melting snow and ice and rain which has been forecast. Slush will build up on the roads and they will become very wet. Met Eireann are warning of a risk of localised flooding. Combined with grit on the roads there will be an increased risk of skidding and aquaplaning. Our advice to motorists is to continue to drive with extreme caution – don’t assume that because the weather is improving, the road conditions are also improving. They’re not, so please drive with care. We would also appeal to pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists to take extra care when using the roads.”
The RSA has a number of tips for driving during the thaw:
- There may be grit residue remaining on the roads during a thaw which creates a hazard for road users due to the risk of skidding. This can occur especially in the centre of the road and on bends.
- Black ice can linger long after the snow is gone. Motorists need to watch out in sheltered areas, bends and corners.
- Keep an extra distance from the vehicle in front and always expect the unexpected.
- Beware of thawing ice and slush which can build up at the side of the road, this increases the risk of skidding.
- Spray from other vehicles can be thrown onto your windscreen which reduces visibility. Keep an extra distance from the vehicle in front and ensure your windshield washer is full. Keep lights cleared of grime and dirt.
- The thaw can lead to flooding in patches so slow down to reduce the risk of aquaplaning.
- The freeze/thaw action leads to damaged road surfaces. Cyclists and motorcyclists are advised to watch out for these hazards.
- Motorists are asked to allow extra distance when passing cyclists and motorcyclists as they may have to take evasive action to avoid a hazard such as black ice or a pot-hole.
- Beware of overhead hazards. Melting snow and ice falling from buildings and trees poses a serious risk. Road users, especially pedestrian’s and cyclists, need to be aware of what is happening above them and stay clear from the edges of buildings.
- Slush, sand, grit and ice-melting chemicals accumulates on the underside of vehicles which accelerates corrosion. Wash your vehicle, particularly the windscreen and lights.
Further information and winter driving tips are available by clicking on the following link: Severe Weather Advice
Ends
For further information, please contact:
The Communications Office, Road Safety Authority – 096 25008
Or
Brian Farrell, Communications Manager, 086 - 3881009