The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is advising all road users especially drivers to exercise caution on roads following a forecast by Met Éireann for heavy rain and a risk of thundery downpours throughout the country this weekend. The expected rainfall will bring to an end to the dry spell which poses added dangers to road users.
According to Met Éireann, scattered heavy rain showers will become widespread in Connaught, Cork, Clare, Kerry and Limerick from this evening and Donegal, Leinster, Cavan and Monaghan on Saturday.
Highlighting the particular dangers posed to drivers following a long dry spell Ms. Moyagh Murdock, CEO, Road Safety Authority said, “Roads are at their most slippery when the weather breaks after a dry spell. When the weather breaks, this deposit mixes with rainwater and the road becomes hazardous. The resulting greasy road surface increases stopping distances and the risk of a skid. The sudden change in driving conditions can also catch drivers off guard.”
“The expected rainfall and the condition of roads will make driving particularly hazardous as road surfaces become slippery reducing skid resistance.” She said.
Drivers are being advised to:
· Slow down. Drive at an appropriate speed to the conditions.
· Adjust your driving behaviour to suit the changing conditions
· Don’t tailgate - Allow extra distance to the vehicle in front especially when driving behind heavy goods vehicles.
· Use dipped headlights at all times of poor visibility
· Check tyres to ensure minimum tread depth of 1.6mm and ensure correct tyre pressures.
· Drive with care and caution – expect the unexpected
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