The summer is almost upon us, and whether we get the sunshine we would like or not, we’ll all be taking to the highways and byways of the country over the next few months. So now is the time to refresh our memories and take just a few minutes to look at what it means to be on the roads of the nation at this time of the year...
An Garda Siochana reports that up to the 8th of May this year, 100 people have been fatally injured on the roads of Ireland, and many more have been left with serious injuries that will affect the quality of their life forever. Of the people fatally injured 49 were drivers, 23 were passengers, 14 were pedestrians, 5 cyclists, 7 motor cyclists and 2 pillion passengers.
With the June Bank Holiday weekend approaching there are measures that we can all take to contribute to the overall safety of all road users. Firstly, ensure that your car is roadworthy and that your tax, insurance and NCT are all in place and that the discs are clearly displayed. Check lights, indicators, brakes and fog lights are all in good working order. Regular servicing is important and could help avoid a breakdown.
Check your tyres, they’re the only thing keeping you in contact with the road. The minimum tread depth is 1.6mm. Anything less than that depth is compromising the stability of your car on the road. Make sure the tyres have the correct pressure for their size. Most cars will have the required pressure listed in the car owners manual or inside the petrol cap. Summer is the time of year for flies and bugs so always check and make sure you have water for cleaning the windscreen. Also clean the glass on the lights, especially after driving at night.
Before you set out on your journey, plan your route and take account of any diversions that may be in place. Check the location of petrol stations along the way. All members of the family must be securely fastened by seatbelt or car seats in the case of children. There are penalty points in place for any persons not wearing a seat belt or carry children who are not securely into properly fitted car seats.
Once on the road observe all speed limits, be aware of any special limits in place because of roadwork’s etc and allow sufficient time for your journey. Stay a reasonable distance from the car in front of you, double this distance in wet weather. Stay alert to other traffic around you, check your mirrors and if you are over-taking ensure you have adequate space to do so. Take regular breaks when driving a long distance. According to the Road Safety Authority, driver fatigue has been found to be a potential contributory factor in 20% of road traffic accidents.
When driving, do not use a hand held mobile phone. Speaking on a mobile phone shifts the focus of your concentration from the road to your conversation making you 4 times more likely to become involved in an accident. You may also find yourself on the receiving end of some unwelcome penalty points.
Finally, never drive when under the influence of Alcohol or Drugs. Alcohol is thought to be the main contributory factor in two thirds of all single vehicle accidents. If you’re the designated driver for your friends or family you are carrying some very precious cargo and they’re relying on you to get them home.
And last but not least, enjoy your road trip! Get your favourite CD’s out and remember your cant enjoy your holiday if you don’t get to go on it.
©2010