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Traffic on 25/1/21

On this month’s Crimecall Garda Adrian Corcoran joined us from the Roads Policing Unit with some traffic advice for all motorists in relation to the following:

Review of 2020 Road Deaths

During 2020, there were 148 fatalities on Irish roads which is up from 140 on 2019, an increase of 8 deaths.

· These figures are very disappointing, especially considering traffic volumes were reduced by as much as 70% in 2020 due to the Covid 19 pandemic.
· Passengers represent the biggest increase with 26 losing their lives in fatal collisions, up 70% on 2019 figures.
· Reminder to passengers, both front and rear seat to wear seat belts.

With rush hour traffic less than normal, we are urging drivers to be on the lookout for vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians, whose numbers increased during lock downs.

· It’s up to everybody to ensure the roads are safer in 2021 and road deaths are reduced:

+ Slow down
+ Wear your Seat Belt
+ Never use a mobile phone while driving
+ Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Clancy Amendment
• The Clancy Amendment was introduced in memory of Cork man Noel Clancy’s wife Geraldine and daughter Louise, who were killed in a collision with an unaccompanied learner driver.

• It was introduced in December 2018 and gave Gardaí the power to seize vehicles driven by unaccompanied learner drivers. The legislation also enables the prosecution of vehicle owners who allow their vehicles to be driven by unaccompanied learners.
Since December 2018

• 5,927 vehicles seized from unaccompanied drivers
• 18,017 FCN’s for driving unaccompanied
• Over 35,000 drivers-on fourth or subsequent learner permit
• 6,500 drivers- on eleventh or subsequent learner permit

Current Rules- L-Drivers

• Category B learner permit is NOT a full driving licence.
• Must have someone with a full driving licence
• Display L-plates on the front and rear of the car.
• Do not drive on a motorway.
• Do not draw a trailer.

Advice During Bad Weather

• There have been a number of cars stolen in recent weeks while people left the engine running to defrost the car while they returned to their house. If you are defrosting your car you should remain inside the car or use water or a defrosting agent.