The RSA is warning road users travelling within and beyond the south east to take extra care today.
That's after Met Eireann issued an Orange Weather Warning
The Road Safety Authority is asking road users across the South East to take care today if out traveling and to check local weather and traffic conditions before setting out on a journey.
An Orange Weather warning has been put in place for today in Donegal, Mayo and Galway while another warning for strong winds is in place in the South east and across the country.
The RSA has the following advice for road users:
Beware of objects being blown out onto the road. Expect the unexpected. Watch out for falling/fallen debris on the road and vehicles veering across the road
Control of a vehicle may be affected by strong cross winds. High sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds
Allow extra space between you and vulnerable road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists
Drive with dipped headlights at all times
Check tyres and consider replacing them if the thread depth is below 3mm
It takes longer to stop in wet conditions so slow down and leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front
Take special care when driving behind goods vehicles as they generate a considerable amount of spray which reduces your visibility
Be aware of the danger of aquaplaning especially on roads with speed limits of 100 km/h and 120 km/h
With added risks posed by wet or flooded roads the RSA has the following advice;
If the road ahead is flooded choose another route, do not attempt to drive through it. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think
After going through water, drive slowly with your foot on the brake pedal for a short distance - this helps to dry the brakes
Sometimes roads can be closed due to their fragile state after wet weather or because they are blocked by flooding
Road users should always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic
Watch out for washed out roads, earth slides, broken water or sewer mains, loose or downed electrical wires, and fallen or falling objects.
Advice to Pedestrians & Cyclists;
Be seen. Wear bright clothing with reflective armbands or a reflective belt.
Take extra care when crossing the road or cycling in extremely windy conditions as a sudden gust of wind could blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
Walk on a footpath, not in the street. Walk on the right hand side of the road, facing traffic if there are no footpaths.
