There has been a spike in traffic incidents on Irish roads since Covid-19 travel restrictions were lifted.
AA Roadwatch recorded a 36% increase in traffic incidents on the roads last week, the first week of intercounty travel.
“The average weekly incidents reported by AA Roadwatch has now nearly doubled since the 5km radius was lifted on April 12th,” said AA Roadwatch Deputy Editor Lauren Beehan.
Last week, the traffic news team reported 63 traffic incidents on Ireland’s roads, up from 34 in an average week during the 5km restriction period and 46 per week in April, when travel was opened to within one’s county.
An ‘incident’ includes collisions, breakdowns affecting traffic on main routes, and vehicle fires.
The AA urges motorists to exercise caution as traffic volumes return to normal levels, with many drivers now returning to routes that might have changed significantly during Level 5 restrictions.
“If you are travelling somewhere for the first time in a while, bear in mind that some road layouts have changed, particularly within town and city centres. If driving, be extra mindful of pedestrians and cyclists who may need more room for physical distancing,” said AA Ireland Head of Communications Paddy Comyn.
