13 December 2011
RSA asks all road users to exercise caution when using the roads this week
Met Eireann has advised that there will be squally showers or thunderstorms which will lead to sleet and snow in parts.
Some areas, particularly in the North and West, will be affected by blizzard-like conditions and road users should ask themselves if making a journey by road is absolutely necessary. If not consider delaying a trip until the weather and road conditions improve. The golden rule is to drive, cycle or walk with care and caution and expect the unexpected.
These conditions are expected to remain for the rest of the week; with ice and snow showers forecast.
Mr. Noel Brett, CEO, Road Safety Authority had this advice for road users, “I would ask each and every road user to use the roads safely over the coming week. With bad weather forecast, we need to be prepared for these severe weather conditions of stormy winds, patches of ice and snow showers. Visibility for road users is severely decreased in such weather conditions, which increases the risk of collision. Therefore motorists need to drive safely and slowly, and all pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists should wear high visibility clothing to give them the best chance on the road.”
“Road users need to heed local weather and traffic reports, be extremely careful and heed any Garda messages in relation to travel. This will give them a better understanding of the road conditions in their area.” He added.
Mr. Brett also urged road users to, “Watch out for black ice. If the road looks polished or glossy it could be, "black ice” and it’s difficult to see. It is nearly transparent ice that often looks like a harmless puddle or is overlooked entirely. Watch out for black ice, especially in sheltered / shaded areas on roads, under trees and adjacent to high walls.”
Motorists should;
- Watch out for falling/fallen debris on the road and vehicles veering across the road and the reaction of other road users.
- Notify the Gardaí about fallen debris on the roadway. NEVER stop on a motorway to remove debris.
- Control of a vehicle may be affected by strong cross winds and sleet.
- High sided vehicles, motorcyclists and cyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds.
- Expect gusts at open areas, where gaps in high buildings and hedgerows create a wind channel.
- Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists and allow extra space.
- Remember there may be black ice in sheltered spots and on bends and corners.
- Be aware of the risk slush build up at road sides. Visibility will be reduced as spray from vehicles is thrown onto the windscreen of your vehicle.
- Keep an extra distance from the vehicle in front, especially goods vehicles, and ensure that your windshield washer is full. Keep your lights clear of grime and dirt.
Pedestrians and cyclists are advised to;
- Be seen. Wear bright clothing with reflective armbands or a reflective belt and appropriate footwear, consider carrying a torch with you.
- Take extra care when near traffic or crossing the road in extremely windy conditions as sudden gusts can blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
- In extreme weather conditions it is best to avoid making a journey by road unless absolutely necessary, as cars and trucks can slip and slide.
The RSA has developed a dedicated section on its website to provide road users with advice in severe weather situations, Severe Weather Advice for road users.
In addition, pre-recorded audio safety tips are available on the site to the public but also to broadcasters looking for messages to use for ‘Public Service Broadcasting’ purposes.
Ends
For further information please contact
Road Safety Authority, Communications Department; 096 - 25008