July has arrived and the Irish summer really kicks off! We all hope for some good weather and most people will expect driving or riding a motorbike to be a bit easier than in other seasons.
However, there are a number of potential hazards to be aware off - and when drivers or riders anticipate hazards, they are quicker to react IF they occur......
Schools are out, both secondary and now primary - no school runs or buses at least. On the other hand, children are more likely to be out and about in housing estates, parks and playgrounds etc. Extra care and lower speed is required.
During the summer, people are more inclined to travel - within Ireland or visitors from overseas. Either way, they are usually less familiar with the roads. They may drive more slowly, looking out for signs; turn or stop suddenly. They may be tired from a long journey or be distracted by scenery. Driving on the left may be a new experience also. Give special care also to foreign registered vehicles, campervans or those towing caravans or tents.
Even if temperatures on the beaches aren't as high as we would prefer, it can get very hot inside a car. There have been fatal tragedies from children and pets being left in parked cars, it is dangerous even with windows down. Keep vehicles cool with sunshades for rear passenger windows, airconditioning or windows down at lower speeds. Try to not to travel in the middle of the day when temperatures are highest and traffic jams more likely. Park in shaded areas. Keep an insulated bag in boot with cool drinks.
And don't forget your vehicle - summer may not be as hard on cars or motorbikes as winter but weekly checks on windscreen wash, oil, coolant, brake fluid, tyres, lights etc are just as important and particularly before longer journeys.
Talking of longer journeys, planning the best route couldn't be easier these days - whether you use Google maps, a Sat nav ,or just a good old fashioned roadmap - a few minutes spent in advance deciding on either the quickest or most scenic route can save hours getting lost! Checking the weather forecast and for major events which could cause traffic hold-ups is also advised.
I am sure there are other tips you can think of - leave a comment and share your advice!
However, there are a number of potential hazards to be aware off - and when drivers or riders anticipate hazards, they are quicker to react IF they occur......
Schools are out, both secondary and now primary - no school runs or buses at least. On the other hand, children are more likely to be out and about in housing estates, parks and playgrounds etc. Extra care and lower speed is required.
During the summer, people are more inclined to travel - within Ireland or visitors from overseas. Either way, they are usually less familiar with the roads. They may drive more slowly, looking out for signs; turn or stop suddenly. They may be tired from a long journey or be distracted by scenery. Driving on the left may be a new experience also. Give special care also to foreign registered vehicles, campervans or those towing caravans or tents.
Even if temperatures on the beaches aren't as high as we would prefer, it can get very hot inside a car. There have been fatal tragedies from children and pets being left in parked cars, it is dangerous even with windows down. Keep vehicles cool with sunshades for rear passenger windows, airconditioning or windows down at lower speeds. Try to not to travel in the middle of the day when temperatures are highest and traffic jams more likely. Park in shaded areas. Keep an insulated bag in boot with cool drinks.
And don't forget your vehicle - summer may not be as hard on cars or motorbikes as winter but weekly checks on windscreen wash, oil, coolant, brake fluid, tyres, lights etc are just as important and particularly before longer journeys.
Talking of longer journeys, planning the best route couldn't be easier these days - whether you use Google maps, a Sat nav ,or just a good old fashioned roadmap - a few minutes spent in advance deciding on either the quickest or most scenic route can save hours getting lost! Checking the weather forecast and for major events which could cause traffic hold-ups is also advised.
I am sure there are other tips you can think of - leave a comment and share your advice!
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