Ireland's national road network has grown to 5,515 kms. This includes 1,187 kms of motorway network. Ireland now has a motorway network which connects all our major urban centres. There has been an increase in incidents involving motorists driving the wrong way around roundabouts, against the flow of traffic on motorways incorrect use of lanes, intersections and hard shoulders.

The Road Safety Authority has published a new Motorway Driving Booklet to help drivers use motorways safely and is also asking drivers who are unfamiliar with driving on a motorway or using a roundabout to consider taking some special lessons with a local Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) to brush up on their skills.

Mr. Noel Brett, Chief Executive, RSA, said, "This changing road environment may pose challenges for some drivers who have no previous experience of driving on a motorway, using roundabouts or who may be put off by the high speed and multiple lane nature of these routes. It is very important that people understand the Rules of the Road when driving on motorways or using roundabouts. To address this, the RSA launched a major road safety awareness campaign last year to inform drivers on how to drive safely on a motorway and on the correct use of roundabouts. However, another practical step that drivers' could take, especially if they are nervous about driving on a motorway / roundabout is to take some lessons with an RSA registered Approved Driving Instructor (ADI). ADI's are fully equipped to teach people how to drive safely on a motorway and build driver competence in using roundabouts".

"A few lessons with an ADI will give you the skills you need to feel confident when driving on a motorway or roundabout. Your local ADI will explain the rules, give you some practice sessions and equip you to use motorways and roundabouts with confidence. Money well spent and what better gift than the gift of some special lessons to make someone a safer driver," he added.