What to do in the event of a car Crash.

Get all the detailsThe most important action to take after an accident is to get all the relevant details of the parties involved. These include:

1. Name, Address, Telephone/Mobile No. of Third Party
2. Registration of the Vehicle/Vehicles involved
3. Insurance Details- Policy Number, Insurance Company, Expiry Date
4. The name and phone number of any witnesses.

What to do then.
It is common for the Gardai to refuse to attend the scene of an accident unless there are injuries involved or the collision is causing a major traffic disruption. Generally; the Gardai do not get involved in minor property disputes such as in a motor collision and will advise the drivers to sort the matter out by themselves. They will however take details of the accident, which can be presented to insurers at a later date.
Another misconception is that the cars must be not moved until the Gardai are called. Often this only serves to block traffic and cause major disruption on the road. Depending on the accident, the information obtained by insurers in the accident report form, and from witnesses, is generally sufficient to establish liability. Such an act will not invalidate your insurance cover.
Although in a perfect world insurers would like the Gardai to attend all accidents, and the accident scene to be preserved, they understand that is impractical and in the majority of cases the stated evidence is sufficient.
www.duignan.eu

RSA (Road Safety Authority) moving the goal posts again

The RSA has again moved the goalposts for EDT learners. From the end of february an EDT learner driver will not be able to get a driving test date until they have fully completed their EDT lessons. In other words they can not now leave lets say the last two lessons and take them just before their driving test.
So it is important to make sure that your EDT lessons are fully covered and the paper work completed before you start looking for a test date.
My understanding is that you can apply for your driving test, but will not now get a test date until your driving instructor has uploaded your lessons to the RSA computer. Make sure if you are looking for driving lessons that your ADI is registered with the Road Safety Authority.
Declan Duignan
www.duignan.eu

Dealing with road rage

Road Rage, and how to deal with it.
If you should be physically threatened by another road user, make
sure that you stay in your vehicle, lock your doors. Use your mobile to call for
assistance, also use your car's horn and put on your headlights to attract the
attention of other road users.While this may not be legal just keep your hand on
the horn as the loud noise can scare off your attacker.If you feel that you
being followed, drive to a busy area and if possible try to find a Garda station
to stop at. If you are on a motorway Do not drive off the motorway unless you
are very familiar with the side roads.
www.duignan.eu

Flooded roads around Carrick-on-Shannon

Slow down while driving in this weather. If you have to drive through water do so slowly in a low gear, make sure to keep the accelerator pressed and slip the clutch if necessary to keep the speed low.
Make sure to check your brakes after you leave the water by pressing them gently to see that they are not pulling to one side and stopping you correctly.
Drive with dipped headlights on if visibility is poor. Remember that side lights are of little use if you want other road users to see you in time.