Page 22 - (DK Eyewitness) Back Roads Travel Guide - Ireland

20 BACK ROADS IRELAND

Caravans and a motorcycle, and an insurance policy.
Motorhomes/RVs You may not carry a passenger if you
Caravans and motorhomes are subject hold only a provisional licence; you
to the same rules of the road as any must have a full licence as well as an
other vehicle. However, camper vans insurance policy that allows you to
or cars towing caravans are restricted do so. Motorcycles must have a
to speeds of 80 km/h (50 mph) white or yellow headlamp, a red rear
unless signs indicate otherwise. lamp, a red rear reflector, and rear
Caravan and motorhome drivers number plate lighting. Ensure that
should also leave a greater space your tyres have adequate tread; the Above Devil’s Pass, near Lough Nafooey
between them and the vehicle in legal minimum is 1 mm. In the
front, to allow for the greater Republic, a current road tax disc Disabled Drivers
stopping distance required. Many must be displayed. Drivers with disabilities who have a
of Ireland’s country roads are very The rules of the road are the same Disabled Parking card or UK Blue
narrow and winding, and they may for motorcyclists as for other drivers, Badge can use designated disabled
not be suitable for caravans and though you should take additional parking spaces around Ireland, either
motorhomes. Signs are often posted, safety precautions. Do not ride in their own vehicle or a hired one.
but they are easy to miss. It is worth between traffic lanes, moving or The card or badge should be clearly
enquiring locally about conditions stationary. Give other vehicles a wide visible on the dashboard. Contact
before setting out on these roads. berth when overtaking, and be alert the Disabled Drivers’ Association of
Narrow bridges, sharp curves and to the fact that they may not see you. Ireland (DDAI) or the Irish Wheelchair
bends and steep gradients can be Association for more details. If you
potentially dangerous for large Driving with Children are bringing your own vehicle to
vehicles, so pay attention to road Child seats are legally mandatory for Ireland, you may be entitled to a
signs warning of such hazards. children aged between a year and 4 discount from the ferry company on
If you are bringing your own years 6 months. It is strongly advised some sailings. Contact the company
caravan to Ireland, you must ensure that children under the age of 12 do concerned, your motoring association
that your LPG supply, used for not sit in the front seat. Babies and or the DDIA for more information.
cooking, has been turned off small children must be placed in a
correctly for the ferry crossing. restraint system suitable for their Car and Motorhome/RV Hire
You can also hire motorhomes and height and weight, such as a child Most of the big international vehicle-
caravans that sleep several people, seat or baby carrier. Infants must hire companies have branches at
some fully equipped with sleeping never be placed in a rear-facing child airports and ferry ports and in all
bags, linens and cooking utensils. seat in the front passenger seat if the larger cities, and offer a wide
For information on rental, repairs and there is an active airbag fitted. range of vehicles. A good local firm
campsites and caravan parks Children over the age of three who with offices around the country is
throughout Ireland, contact the Irish are under 150 cm (5 ft) tall and Dan Dooley Car Rentals. To rent a
Caravan and Camping Council. weigh less than 36 kg (80 lb) must car in Ireland you will need a valid
use the appropriate child or booster driving licence and a credit card.
Motorbikes seat or booster cushion. Remember Normally drivers must be between
By law, all motorcyclists and their to request child seats in advance the ages of 21 and 70, but check
passengers must wear helmets, and when making a car hire booking. It is with the company concerned before
dipped headlights must be used the driver’s responsibility to ensure you make your reservation, regarding
during the day at all times. You must that any passengers under the age their age restrictions. It is highly
have a valid driving licence to cover of 17 comply with these laws. recommended to book in advance,

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