THE ROAD SAFETY Authority (RSA) has advised motorists to slow down over the summer months.

So far this year 72 people have been killed on Irish roads, including six people over the last three days. A number of others have been injured this week alone.

A spokesperson for the RSA told TheJournal.ie the summer months “can result in more fatalities and serious injuries” than other times of the year as “many people are out of their usual routines”.

They urged motorists to slow down and “drive at an appropriate speed” as well as always wear their seatbelt and ensure their passengers do the same.

“Drivers, be on the lookout for other road users, especially vulnerable road users as there are many more pedestrians and cyclists making the most of the good weather.

“The road is a shared space and we would urge everyone to respect each other’s right to be there.”

The spokesperson added that pedestrians and cyclists “also have a responsibility to make sure they follow the rules of the road the same as everyone else”.

Weather and farming

Motorists were also advised to be aware of unexpected changes in weather conditions which can have an effect on the control of their vehicle.

“For example, after a sunny period the roads may be greasy and may catch people by surprise,” the spokesperson said.

The summer is also a very busy time for farmers, with silage cutting already under way – meaning the number of tractors and trailers on roads will increase dramatically.

“As such, drivers should be on the lookout for tractors, trailers and other farm machinery exiting from fields and farmyards,” they added.