An Garda Síochána Christmas Road Safety Campaign
An Garda Síochána Westmeath have taken to social media to promote their Christmas Road Safety Campaign.
The Meath Westmeath Roads Policing Unit attended a road traffic collision on the M6 last night, thankfully nobody was injured.
Conditions were cold and wet, and one of the most concerning things observed by the patrols were vehicles passing the collision at speed in the lane closest to the collision, despite emergency vehicles clearly visible from a significant distance.
Wet winter roads significantly increase stopping distances and reduce visibility, especially at motorway speeds.
Cold and wet weather driving advice:
● Slow down and drive to the conditions of the weather and road conditions
● Increase your following distance
● Avoid harsh braking or steering
● Use dipped headlights in rain and poor visibility
● Be careful of spray and standing water
● If approaching a RTC - slow down and move over safely
Trailer safety reminder:
The Roads Policing Unit regularly encounter trailers with:
● Defective or missing lights
● Unsecured loads
● Poor visibility
An unsecured load can shift or fall and cause a serious collision, particularly in wet or windy conditions.
• Secure your load properly
• Use suitable straps and restraints
• Check loads during long journeys
• Ensure nothing can move if you brake suddenly
Remember:
If other road users can't see you, they can't avoid you.
If your load isn't secured, it becomes a danger to everyone
Every journey matters this Christmas.
Arrive alive!