As the colder, darker weather descends, mobility solutions specialist, easytrip, Ireland’s only electronic parking and tolling tag provider, is reminding drivers to prepare before setting out on the road in advance of the clocks going back at the end of October.
The combination of longer hours of darkness and tougher driving conditions that can further reduce visibility means that drivers need to be extra vigilant during this period.
Winter driving tips for Irish motorists from easytrip:
- Vehicle check: before the onset of wintry weather, check your lights, your oil and anti-freeze levels, your wiper blade condition, water levels, and your tyres for any bulges or small cuts – don’t forget to check the spare tyre.
- Be safe, be seen: use dipped lights even before darkness has fallen when following other vehicles and in built-up areas.
- Watch out for motorcyclists and cyclists: leave space for cyclists and be prepared for the fact that cyclists may not have sufficient lighting or have high visibility clothing on.
- Overtaking: it is more difficult to judge a safe gap in the dark so don’t overtake unless you are absolutely certain it is safe to do so – particularly on motorways.
- Be aware of pedestrians: particularly in poorly light areas and pay particular attention to children that may be walking to and from school.
- Driving in fog or heavy rain: switch on your fog lights and drive slowly when visibility is poor. Turn on your hazard lights if necessary to alert drivers following behind.
- Keep your distance: always remember to keep the recommended distance between you and the car in front – two seconds in dry conditions and four seconds in wet.
“As we head into the winter the evenings and mornings get darker and visibility diminishes on our roads. Breakdowns such as punctures, flat batteries and engine failures can become more frequent so getting your annual car service and spending five minutes checking your vehicle each week will ensure that any faults are identified and fixed as soon as possible. For added peace of mind, we would advise motorists to avail of our Puncture Protect service,” says Colin Delaney, General Manager at easytrip Ireland. “Puncture Protect offers drivers reassurance in the event of a puncture with unlimited puncture repairs, a real benefit for drivers during the winter months.”
Easytrip’s Puncture Protect service, in partnership with Advance Pitstop, offers easytrip members unlimited puncture repairs for only €19.99 annually. Visit www.easytrip.ie for more information or call 1890 67 67 68.
Customers of easytrip Ireland save on toll fees, avoid incurring fines on the M50 motorway and have access to all 11 toll plazas nationwide as well as exclusive cash-free access to 25 car parks across Belfast, Cork, Dublin, Galway, Limerick and Waterford and other motoring services.
