Road safety alert as temperatures set to plummet in Laois

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging road users to brace themselves for hazardous conditions on roads and footpaths as temperatures plummet. 

This comes as Met Eireann has issued a Status Yellow Low Temperature and Ice warning for Laois which comes into effect from 8pm on Tuesday and will remain in place until Wednesday at 10am. A second warning for low temperatures and ice will come into force on Wednesday evening at 8pm and will remain in place until Thursday at 10am. 

The forecaster is warning of hazardous conditions on roads and paths and some travel disruption.

After the recent prolonged spell of mild weather road users are being advised not to get caught out by a drop in temperatures. The RSA said they should expect hazardous conditions with a potential for reduced visibility. Road users are also urged to exercise caution particularly on untreated road surfaces.

The RSA has provided practical advice for road users in snowy and icy conditions. Drivers are advised:

Before setting off on your journey, ensure all snow and ice are removed from your vehicle. Snow left on the roof can become loose, dropping onto the windscreen during braking and severely restricting your vision.

It could also fall off during your drive, potentially causing injury to pedestrians or a reflex action by another driver.

Ensure your windows and mirrors are clear before you set out. Use a screen scraper and de-icer, but avoid using hot water on the windscreen as it can crack the glass.
Bear in mind that stopping distances are longer in snow and icy conditions. Slow down, use all controls delicately and maintain extra distance between you and the vehicle in front.

Avoid over steering, harsh braking and harsh acceleration. Use the highest gear possible to prevent wheel spin and select a low gear when travelling downhill, especially through bends.

Drivers of high-sided vehicles like trucks and buses are particularly at risk from the dangers posed by snow and the high winds associated with heavy snow conditions.

In snowy conditions, visibility will be reduced. Avoid driving on the tail-lights of the vehicle in front, called target fixing, as this can give a false sense of security and you will be too close to brake safely.

Use dipped headlights at all times, and fog lights in heavy snow to ensure other motorists can see you (but remember to turn them off afterwards).

Be mindful of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, and allow extra space.

Ensure your tyres are in good condition and replace them if the tread depth falls below 3mm. Make sure they're inflated to the correct tyre pressure.

Get to know any safety assist technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) in your car.