With the country experiencing strong winds over the last week the AA has reminded motorists of the dangers of driving under those conditions.
A poll by the company's insurance arm found that 10% of drivers were unaware of the perils of windy weather. As you might expect the percentage was higher among young drivers: 14% for the 17-24-year age group. Only 5% of over 65s were unclear on the risks but 42% of the 12,000 people asked admitted their knowledge was incomplete.
Three dangers in particular were highlighted. Firstly, the risk of your own car being blown off course. Take care on exposed roads or when passing high-sided vehicles. A related danger is that of other road users being blown into your path; lorries, motorcycles and pedal cyclists are particularly susceptible to strong gusts so allow them extra room. Finally, remember that branches or whole trees may be blown into the road. Look out for twigs and small branches in the road as these can warn of a fallen tree further up the road. Some trees may partially fall and hang above the road, and at night your headlamps could miss these hazards.
In particular the AA advises drivers to watch their speed. A doubling in speed can see the wind pressure on your car increasing four times. As well as magnifying the effects of being blown off course it leaves you less time to react to any dangers.
More winter driving tips can be found on the AA's web site at www.aaireland/wintertips.