A MAJOR alert has been issued for Irish motorists as a popular road is set to close down for nearly two weeks.
And the details of local diversions are revealed so drivers can plan their journeys.
The busy stretch will temporarily close for 12 days for road works[/caption]
Mayo County Council announced that the busy R310 Pontoon to Knockmore Road will be temporarily closed at the former Healy’s Hotel for resurfacing works.
The closure will start from Monday, June 30, to Friday, July 11, from 9:30am until 5pm.
During the closure, traffic management with local diversions will be implemented.
All-Stop Traffic Management will be in operation; however, they warned drivers that there may be potential long delays to be expected.
Drivers are asked to divert via R315 to Lahardaun – Crossmolina to Ballina and R318 to Foxford and Castlebar.
They revealed that the local roads are not suitable for goods vehicles and emergency vehicles will be accommodated during the road closure.
The council also issued an alert that road works are currently taking place on R320/N5 Junctions until further notice.
Temporary traffic management will be in operation.
Drivers may expect some delays, and they are asked to allow extra time for their journey and use alternative routes.
Meanwhile, Irish motorists are being warned they could face a €2,500 fine for not towing their trailers properly.
Hundreds of holidaymakers will be hitting the road with their caravans this summer.
And the Road Safety Authority has urged motorists to ensure that all trailers comply with the Irish Road Traffic Regulations.
All caravans need to undergo safety checks to test whether they are roadworthy before heading out on long journeys.
Your local mechanics or testing centres can carry out the checks and identify issues with tyres, brakes and other components that could lead to issues on the road.
Drivers are also urged to ensure that all windows and mirrors are clean, properly adjusted and in good condition to have a good view of the rear.
They warned that only drivers who have a category B or BE licence can tow the trailer, which means that a B driving licence can drive a car, van or 4 X4 with a small trailer that is no greater than 750kg.
All unbraked light trailers must not exceed 750kg in weight and the maximum authorised mass is the weight of the trailer including its load.
For example, the maximum permissible weight of the trailer is 750kg and the unladen weight of the trailer is 110kg – the maximum load weight which can be carried would be 640kg.
HEFTY FINE
If you were caught not complying with laden weight provisions, you could receive a court summons if stopped by a Gardaí and if convicted, you could face a fine of up to €2,500.
If also detected using a vehicle and trailer combination whose axles or weight exceed those specified by the vehicle or trailer manufacturer, you can face a penalty point and a €200 fine if paid within 28 days.
However, it will rise up to €300 if paid within the subsequent 28 days or three penalty points and a fine not exceeding €2,500 if convicted in court.
