Be aware of sun glare – that’s the messages to road users in Ireland from the Road Safety Authority (RSA) as summer approaches.
According to the safety organization summertime is the most dangerous time of the year on the roads.
“In the summer, when there are no obvious dangers, and the weather is fine and days are brighter, we drop our guard,” the RSA said.
“There is a spike in pedestrian, cyclist and motorcyclist casualties over the summer. The fine weather brings more people out and about. As drivers, we need to be on the lookout for them. Slow down and expect the unexpected.”
With summer on the way the RSA is advising drivers to:
- Reduce the risk from sun glare and of being dazzled by wearing sunglasses.
- Be aware of the dangers of sun glare when travelling east in the mornings and west later in the day.
- Be prepared and ensure you have adequate supplies of water; any delays to journeys could result in road users being stuck in traffic for a period of time in hot conditions. Children and pets are particularly at risk during these hot spells of weather.
- Ensure your windscreen is clear of grease or grime inside and out. Make sure you have plenty of window washer fluid to clear flies/insects and excess dust from the road when driving.
- Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists. Slow down and allow extra space when passing.
