COUNCIL officials and road safety advisers have warned motorists to take extra care on the roads today after a series of road traffic accidents.
The latest smash happened on the N56 at lunchtime when a car left the road.
The incident took place 2kms on the Letterkenny side of the entrance to Glenveagh National Park.
The BMW car spun off the road and into a ditch. The motorist was left shaken by the incident but was otherwise unhurt.
The Road Safety Authority is advising all road users especially drivers to exercise caution on roads following a break in the dry weather.
Rainfall this week will bring to an end a long dry spell which poses added dangers to road users.
The N56 is particularly slippy, especially on the bends between Termon and Dunlewey. There have been several other incidents reported this morning in Gaoth Dobhair, Inishowen and Lifford.
According to Met Éireann, scattered rain showers are set to become widespread as the week progresses, turning heavy and possibly thundery at times.
RSA boss Noel Brett said: “Roads are at their most slippery when the weather breaks after a long dry spell. This is because the fine grit on roads tends to polish the road surface and roads also see the build up of a film of tar, rubber and oil deposit. The sudden change in driving conditions can also catch drivers off guard.
“The expected rainfall and the condition of roads will make driving particularly hazardous as road surfaces become slippery reducing skid resistance.
“For their own safety and the safety of other road users drivers should adjust their driving behaviour to suit these changing conditions especially after driving for a period in good dry conditions. My advice to drivers is, slow down, keep your distance and expect the unexpected.”
Drivers are being advised to:
• Slow down. Drive at an appropriate speed to the conditions.
• Don’t tailgate – Allow extra distance to the vehicle in front especially when driving behind heavy goods vehicles.
• Use dipped headlights at all times of poor visibility
• Check tyres to ensure minimum tread depth of 1.6mm and ensure correct tyre pressures.
• Drive with care and caution – expect the unexpected