Concerns raised over safety of N11
HIGH NUMBER OF INCIDENTS AT GLEN OF THE DOWNS
FRESH concerns have been raised about safety on the
N11 at Glen of the Downs following a series of crashes.
‘Many people in Wicklow will be well aware of the increasing number of accidents occurring on the N11, particularly along the stretch of road known as Glen of the
Downs,’ said Deputy John Brady.
‘According to local Gardaí, between January 1 and October 24 this year, there have been 17 material damage collisions and 4 non serious injury collisions along the Glen of the Downs. In correspondence to me, the Garda Super- intendent noted that “the increase in collisions in the Glen of the Downs has not gone unnoticed.”’
According to the correspondence, the common cause in four collisions on October 19 appears to be loss of control due to aquaplaning. This occurs when a layer of water builds between the wheels of the vehicle and the road surface, leading to a loss of traction.
Deputy Brady said that he has written to the National Transport Authority to raise concerns about the stretch of road and the need for investigation.
‘ These collisions are preventable and action is needed immediately,’ he said.
The N11 at the Glen of the Downs has a speed limit of 80m and is not part of the motorway.
The stretch of road has been historically treacherous in particularly wet weather.