Introduction
With the October Bank Holiday weekend approaching, Gardai and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) have reminded everyone using Irish roads to stay extra vigilant. Bank Holiday weekends bring more traffic, mixed road users and unpredictable weather — a combination that requires careful planning and responsible driving. Whether you’re heading to the coast, visiting family in the countryside, or driving around Dublin, a few sensible precautions can make all the difference.
What Gardai and the RSA are advising
Both organisations are emphasising common-sense measures that every driver should follow. Expect increased Garda patrols and mobile checkpoints aimed at enforcing speed limits, seatbelt use and laws on drink and drug driving. The RSA is also reminding drivers to avoid distractions and to ensure their vehicle is road-ready before setting off.
- Speed: Stick to the limits and adjust for conditions. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases stopping distances.
- Seatbelts: Everyone must be properly belted, including children in appropriate restraints.
- Drink and drugs: Zero tolerance — plan a sober driver or alternative transport if you’re drinking.
- Mobile phones: Do not use a handheld phone while driving. If you must use navigation, set it up before you go.
- Vehicle checks: Make sure tyres, lights and wipers are in good order and that your fuel and oil levels are adequate.
Why extra caution matters in October
October brings shorter daylight hours and wetter roads. Heavy rain and fallen leaves can make surfaces slippery, and glare from low autumn sun can reduce visibility on morning and evening commutes. Rural roads in particular may have roadside hazards such as farm vehicles, livestock or cyclists sharing narrow lanes.
Bank Holiday traffic also means a higher number of unfamiliar drivers on busy routes and popular tourist spots. That increases the likelihood of sudden stops, lane changes and congestion near services and scenic areas. Combined, these factors raise the risk of collisions if drivers are not alert.
Learner drivers and supervisors: special considerations
Learner drivers face extra challenges at this time of year. New drivers often have less experience judging braking distances on wet roads or reacting to unexpected hazards. If you are a learner or supervising one, keep these realities in mind and give yourself extra time and patience on every journey.
Practical tips for learner drivers in Ireland
Below are straightforward, practical tips to help learners stay safe and confident this October Bank Holiday weekend:
- Display L-plates clearly and ensure your accompanying supervisor complies with legal requirements; know the rules that apply to your learner permit.
- Do a basic vehicle check before each trip: tyres, lights, wipers, mirrors and fluid levels.
- Allow extra stopping distance on wet or leaf-covered roads; braking distances can be much longer in slippery conditions.
- Avoid peak traffic times if possible. Plan quieter routes and give yourself extra time so you’re not rushed.
- Limit distractions: put phones out of reach, set navigation before you start, and avoid loud music while building experience.
- Familiarise yourself with motorway rules and lane discipline before attempting longer or faster routes; consider staying on regional roads if you feel uncomfortable.
- Book a refresher lesson with a qualified instructor if you’re unsure about junctions, roundabouts or driving in poor weather.
For parents and supervisors
Supervisors should model safe behaviour: wear seatbelts, avoid phone use and be calm and constructive in their coaching. Choose routes that match the learner’s skill level and gradually introduce more complex driving situations, such as higher-speed roads or busier junctions, only when the learner is ready.
Conclusion
The October Bank Holiday weekend is a great opportunity to enjoy time off, but it also requires extra care on the roads. Follow the advice from Gardai and the RSA: check your vehicle, drive to the conditions, and plan journeys sensibly. If you or someone in your household is learning to drive, use this weekend as a reminder to practise safe habits and consider a refresher lesson if needed.
If you’d like help preparing for busier roads or need a confidence-boosting lesson before the holiday, Epic Driving School is here to help. Stay safe, and enjoy the weekend.
Source – Gardai and Road Safety Authority urge vigilance on Irish roads over October Bank Holiday weekend