Driving in Ireland

Another topic mentioned in Jaywalking with the Irish is driving in Ireland. Americans find Irish roads dangerous and slow, so here are some facts.

Firstly, Ireland’s roads are not appropriate for the volume of traffic they carry. Although new roads are built throughout the country and existing ones are being improved it will be some time before they reach a tolerable international standard.

Secondly, the roads are narrow; moreover, there is little or no hard shoulder (the area at the side of a big road where you are allowed to stop if you have a problem with your car). Another problem is that the verges (the edge of a road) encroach onto the road, which is a huge safety problem.

If you happen to be driving in Ireland and you see sings warning you of curved parts of a road, pay attention, they really mean it. Major hazards in Ireland are locals, who knowing the roads very well, drive them at breakneck speed. Additionally, Ireland is an agricultural country, so you will come across agricultural machinery travelling at about 10 miles an hour, tempting you to overtake. Consequently keep in mind to drive slowly and with caution.

Putting aside the fact that Irish roads are narrow and winding, there is another threatening development. Believe it or not, about 40% of Irish drivers have never passed a driving test. For the most part they are driving legally on what is only supposed to be a provisional license. This regulation allows some to drive a car while accompanied in order to learn to drive, but people use to renew these licences regularly and drive as though on a full licence.

In short, the main hazards are widespread poor road conditions, drunk drivers, poor enforcement of traffic laws and unskilled drivers.