The RSA and the Gardai have urged motorists to take care on roads over Easter, slow down and try to plan for traffic jams as there will be a higher volume of cars on this road at this time of year.
Motorists are urged to slow down, wear seatbelts, and not to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and not to drive when fatigued. They are also being reminded to watch out for vulnerable road users including cyclists, pedestrians, horse riders and motorcyclists, particularly on rural roads where most fatal collisions take place.
There is also a warning for pedestrians to always walk on the footpath and if there is none then walk on the right hand side of the road where they can face oncoming traffic.
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To date this year there have been 45 people killed in road crashes, with 55% of these fatalities being single vehicle collisions.
Some additional advice to the public include:
- If you are planning a long trip over the Easter Bank Holiday, remember that traffic will probably be heavy so to give your give yourself additional time to allow you to get your destination safely. Planning some breaks so tiredness doesn't because an issue is also advised
- The RSA advice to Stop, Sip, Sleep. To stop somewhere safe, have a caffeinated drink and nap for 15 minutes and to never fight sleep at the wheel
- Drivers planning to head out socialising over the Easter Bank Holiday are urged to plan how they are going to get home safely. Book a taxi, use public transport or designate a driver. They say the same also applies if you are planning to walk, particularly in rural areas where there may be no footpaths or street lighting.
- They also advice to never drink and drive. Use public transport, a taxi or arrange a life with a friend or colleague. If you cannot, then delay your journey until it’s safe to drive. It takes approximately one hour to get rid of one unit of alcohol from your body. A unit of alcohol is half a pint, a glass of wine and a standard measure of spirits.
The Road Safety Authority have partnered with AppleGreen service stations to provide a free cup of coffee to drivers struggling with fatigue. The offer is available from 2pm to 8pm from Friday April 7 to Monday April 10.
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