As clean-up and recovery from the passage of Tropical Storm Grace remains underway, the National Roads Authority (NRA) has provided some road safety tips for drivers returning to local roads.
• Take it easy on the roads today if you are out and about. Clean-up is ongoing.
• Be Defensive. Do not be the aggressor on the road. Drive with caution.
• Watch for Pedestrians. Storms often cause damage to vehicles and roads. As a result, some people will walk along the side of the road.
• Drive Around Floodwater. Storms will inevitably cause some standing water or flooding. Do not make the mistake of attempting to drive through floodwater. Even standing water that doesn’t appear to be deep can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Watch for downed power lines. If there are downed power lines ahead, you should drive around them. Such power lines might be electrified even though there aren’t sparks.
• Be careful at intersections. Some traffic lights go out amidst storms. Don’t assume traffic will automatically proceed as usual at intersections. It is also possible that emergency vehicles will zoom through red lights and stop signs.
• Turn on your radio. You can learn a lot about road closures, alternative routes, and the storm’s path by turning on your radio.
• Go easy on the brakes. A sudden pressing of the brakes with considerable force can spur a loss of control. Try to brake in a gradual manner. Wet brakes can take longer to slow a vehicle.
• Don’t assume road debris is just sticks and leaves and don’t drive under fallen trees.
• If your vehicle doesn’t have a radio or if you can’t get reception, pull over to contact a relative or friend for updates.
• Don't start a wet engine.
• Lastly, keep speeds low and courtesy high.
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