Motorists and other road users should take extra precautions as temperatures rise in the coming days, according to the Road Safety Authority (RSA).
Daytime temperatures are predicted to reach the high 20s or 30s from Sunday to Tuesday – prompting Met Éireann to issue a high temperature weather advisory – the RSA urges drivers to plan ahead before getting behind the wheel, while other road users should be aware of potential hazards as well.
“In high temperatures, the RSA advises road users, especially motorists, to be aware of the dangers of ‘sun glare.’ says the RSA. said in a statement.
To avoid this, it advises drivers to wear sunglasses while driving and be aware of the dangers of sun glare when traveling east in the morning and west later in the day.
Motorists should also carry extra water in their vehicles in case they get stuck in traffic for extended periods in hot conditions.
Especially pets and children are at risk of dehydration under such conditions.
Drivers should also ensure that their windshields are clean both inside and out and that they have topped up washer fluid to remove bugs and excess road dust.
The good weather also means that more people will go out and motorists are urged to be alert to vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists.
“Slow down and give extra space when passing,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists are also advised to beware of the dangers that sun glare can cause, especially when crossing the road and at intersections.
The high temperatures also mean that the temperature of the road surface will rise significantly in hot weather and that the paved roads (“tar and chips”) will be sensitive to softening of the bitumen.
“This will lead to bitumen spots on smaller roads. Road users are advised to slow down and be careful when braking in such situations,” advises the RSA.