AA caution on weekend driving

In advance of the October Bank Holiday weekend, AA Ireland is warning motorists to exercise additional caution while driving, as conditions worsen over the coming weeks.

While there is little risk of significant weather events currently, the changing of the clocks and the start of the winter season represent an increasingly dangerous period on Irish roads.

“With the clocks going back this Sunday motorists will notice increasingly dark conditions when driving, particularly during their post-work commute. To make matters worse, as we move into winter we can expect an increase in hazardous weather conditions such as heavy rain and fog which can greatly affect visibility, so it’s important that motorists react accordingly by taking extra care on the roads in the coming months,” said Conor Faughnan, AA director of consumer affairs.

“While it’s important that cyclists and pedestrians do their part by donning hi-vis vests, motorists must take the greatest share of the burden when it comes to keeping our roads safe. This includes slowing down where the conditions require you to do so, allowing extra distance between yourself and other road users during heavy rainfall or icy weather and being on the lookout for vulnerable road users.”

For those driving on Hallowe’en night, the AA is advising that care is needed approaching parks and fields where bonfires may take place as visibility may be reduced due to smoke fumes.

With all the excitement that goes with the festivities road users are reminded that children pose a greater risk of unpredictable behaviour, such as running onto the road without checking for oncoming traffic. For this reason, The AA are also advising that children under the age of 12 be accompanied by at least one adult and encourages trick-or-treaters to use pedestrian lights where possible.