As we once again prepare to move in to winter time, with the clocks going back at 2.00am on Sunday 31st October, Donegal County Council and the Donegal Road Safety Working Group are asking everyone to make road safety a priority.
‘Be Safe and Be Seen’ – that’s the message at this time of year to all road users in Donegal, as the evenings get darker.
If all drivers in Ireland used their dipped headlights when driving during the day, drive within the speed limits, never drive after consuming alcohol or drugs and always be aware of all road users, the roads would be a much safer place.
The Donegal Road Safety Working Group is reminding pedestrians, cyclists and motorists alike to make themselves more visible during the dark winter nights. The Donegal Road Safety Working Group is urging pedestrians to wear fluorescent or bright clothing in the daytime and reflective material at night to make themselves more visible to drivers. At the same time, motorists are being urged to use dipped headlights so that not only can they see other road users but they, themselves, can be seen.
Brian O’Donnell, Road Safety Officer with Donegal County Council, said: “It is crucial when using the road in the darker mornings or evenings that you are always seen. As always, we urge all pedestrians, runners and cyclists to wear high-visibility vests, reflective bands and to carry a torch. We all need to continue to drive home the ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’ message as too many people continue to think that ‘it won’t happen to me’. The reality is, however, that it does happen every day and unfortunately a car is going to come off much better than the pedestrian or cyclist it collides with. Motorists must always be aware that vulnerable road users have a right to use the road safely. Vehicle preparation for winter is absolutely crucial. If you think ahead and have your vehicle winter ready, you’ll be prepared for any adverse conditions the colder months throw at you and keep you safe on the roads”.
To date in 2021, 14 pedestrians and 5 cyclists have been killed on roads in Ireland.
