Mayo drivers warned of the dangers of sun glare during extended hot spell

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging all road users in Mayo to be aware of the dangers posed by sun glare as the clear, sunny weather is set to continue for the next week.

Sun glare can result in drivers being temporarily blinded by the intensity and brightness of the sun. 

As the weather will remain clear and sunny for the next while, the RSA advises all drivers to: 

- Reduce the risk from sun glare and of being dazzled by wearing sunglasses.

- Be aware of the dangers of sun glare when travelling east in the mornings and west later in the day.

- Be prepared and ensure you have adequate supplies of water; any delays to journeys could result in road users being stuck in traffic for a period of time in hot conditions. Children and pets are particularly at risk during these hot spells of weather.

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- Ensure your windscreen is clear of grease or grime inside and out.

- Make sure you have plenty of window washer fluid to clear flies/insects and excess dust from the road when driving. 

- Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists. Slow down and allow extra space when passing.

Sun glare affects all road users. Pedestrians, people who cycle and motorcyclists are advised to: 

- Beware of the dangers that sun glare can cause, especially when crossing the road and at junctions.

- Use sun block when out walking and cycling

Summertime is the most dangerous time of the year on our roads. In the summer time, when there are no obvious dangers as the weather is fine and days are brighter, we drop our guard. 

The good weather can result in more people out and about leading to an increase on the roads. Road users are advised to slow down and expect the unexpected.

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