Clare gardaí issue bank holiday safety warnings

CLARE gardaí are urging motorists not to take risks on the roads this August Bank Holiday weekend, insisting, “it’s just not worth it”.

The Garda Road Safety Campaign will run until Monday.

Sergeant Joe Downey, Clare Crime Prevention Officer, said, “We are appealing to all road users to take extra care on the roads, as there will be an increase in the volume of traffic using our roads, especially this weekend.

“Slow down, wear your seat belts, do not consume anything which may impair your driving, be well rested and, pedestrians and cyclists, wear appropriate high-visibility clothing when out and about.”

He added that drivers should make sure that their vehicle is road worthy, especially in relation to tyres. “Worn tyres are a source of danger, especially if you have to brake hard,” he said.

In relation to speed, he commented, “Remember, speed limits are a legal maximum and not a target to reach and may not be appropriate when other conditions are taken into account, such as road type, weather conditions and traffic volumes. Do not forget that you are responsible for your own safety also, so buckle up.”

He outlined that 12% of all drunk-driving arrests occur between 8am and 2pm, with more than a third on a Sunday between 11am and 2pm.
“If you are out socialising and intend consuming alcohol, leave the car at home and be mindful of the morning after, as you may still be over the limit.”

He concluded, “Our message is please make sensible choices when using the roads, never ever drink and drive, slow down, wear your seatbelt, don’t use your mobile phone when driving, especially for texting. Respect the road and don’t take risks, it’s just not worth it.”