CAR HIRE IRELAND

Car hire in Ireland poses few porblems for motorists from the UK. Traffic drives on the left and generally moves a t a relaxed pace, although drivers can occasionally be unpredictable (many older motorists have never taken a formal driving test) and accident rates are higher than the UK.

Ireland has embarked on a large-scale road improvement programme which is making driving there much quicker and easier. One difference from the UK is that distances are indicated in kilometres on the new green sign posts, although many older signs still show miles. Speed limits are in mph. Signs are in English, although you may see the Gaelic 'give way' sign, Geill Sli.

PASSING LANES

Main highways have passing lanes, seperated from the main carriageway by a broken yellow line. You are expected to use this to move over and let faster vehicles pass, but take care as the hard shoulder is frequently potholed. Minor roads can also be in a poor state of repair, and look out for livestock wandering in the rural areas.

PARKING

Parking is controlled by single anddouble yellow lines as it is in the UK. Cars parked illegally may be towed away.