How do I handle single track roads, tractors, sheep and cyclists safely?
Slow down early and use the passing places, the widened bays cut into single track roads. Pull into the bay on your left, or wait opposite one so the other driver can use it, and raise a hand in thanks; it is the local currency. If you meet a tractor or a flock of sheep, stop and wait: sheep move for the farmer and the dog, not for a car, and forcing past helps nobody. For cyclists the Road Safety Authority asks for at least 1 metre of clearance at speeds up to 50 km/h and 1.5 metres above that, so wait for a clear stretch rather than squeezing past on a bend.
Useful pages: Driving in Ireland: the full guide · An Ireland road trip · Dublin · County Kerry · Scenic drives in Ireland · Killarney · Healthcare and emergencies · Plan your journey · Northern Ireland
Sources
- Road Safety Authority: drink driving limits, seat belts, child restraints and safe passing distances for cyclists, rsa.ie
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