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National Slow Down Day: 5 Reasons to Reduce Your Speed

Aug30

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National Slow Down Day: 5 Reasons to Reduce Your Speed

Posted by Geraldine Herbert on Aug 30, 2026

National Slow Down Day: 5 Reasons to Reduce Your Speed

We have 5 reasons why slowing down is a good idea writes Geraldine Herbert National Slow Down Day takes place on Monday 31st of August. The nationwide road-safety initiative encourages motorists to reduce their speed and make safer choices behind the wheel. Here are five important reasons to slow down while driving. We have 5 reasons why slowing down is a good idea Save lives –The impact of speed on pedestrian safety is striking. At 60km/h, half of those hit by a car will not survive. At 50km/h, the odds improve, but still, three out of ten won’t make it. However, at 30km/h, nine out of ten pedestrians will survive. Save Fuel –Higher speeds not only burn rubber but also fuel. Driving at 110km/h consumes up to 9% more fuel than cruising at 96km/h, and a whopping 15% more than maintaining a steady 80km/h pace. Save on Maintenance – Slower speeds aren’t just safer for vulnerable road users; they’re also kinder to your vehicle. By easing off the accelerator, you can reduce wear and tear on your car, potentially saving on maintenance costs in the long run. Save Stress – You can reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being by slowing down. Save Money – Staying within the speed limit isn’t just about obeying the law; it’s also about safeguarding your wallet. By avoiding speeding tickets, you can steer clear of unnecessary fines and keep your hard-earned money where it belongs – in your pocket. Geraldine Herbert ...

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10 Essential Hot Weather Driving Tips to Keep You and Your Car Safe This Summer

Jun23

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10 Essential Hot Weather Driving Tips to Keep You and Your Car Safe This Summer

Posted by Geraldine Herbert on Jun 23, 2026

10 Essential Hot Weather Driving Tips to Keep You and Your Car Safe This Summer

High temperatures can put both you and your vehicle under pressure—follow these 10 simple tips to stay safe and keep your car running smoothly this summer. 1. Stay Hydrated High temperatures can quickly lead to dehydration, especially on long journeys. Keep plenty of bottled water in the car for everyone travelling and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. 2. Charge Your Phone Before You Leave A fully charged mobile phone can be invaluable if you break down or need emergency assistance. Consider carrying a car charger or power bank for longer trips. 3. Never Leave Children or Pets in a Parked Car Even on a moderately warm day, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can rise dangerously within minutes. Never leave a child or pet unattended in the car, even for a short time. 4. Travel During the Coolest Part of the Day If you’re heading on a long journey, try to travel early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower. You’ll avoid the worst of the heat and often the busiest traffic too. 5. Dress for the Heat Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Light colours reflect heat and help keep you cooler behind the wheel. 6. Check Your Car Before You Set Off Hot weather places extra strain on your vehicle. Before leaving, check your tyre pressures (when the tyres are cold), engine oil, coolant level and windscreen washer fluid to reduce the risk of problems on the road. 7. Make Sure Your Air Conditioning Works If your car has air conditioning, test it before your journey. A properly functioning system not only keeps you comfortable but also helps reduce driver fatigue and maintain concentration. 8. Know What to Do if Your Engine Overheats If your temperature gauge starts climbing or warning lights appear, pull over somewhere safe as soon as possible and switch off the engine. Never continue driving an overheating vehicle, as this can cause serious and expensive engine damage. Wait for the engine to cool before seeking assistance. 9. Park in the Shade Whenever Possible Keeping your car out of direct sunlight helps prevent the interior from becoming unbearably hot and protects the dashboard, upholstery and steering wheel from sun damage. A windscreen sunshade can also make a big difference....

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Tips for Buying a Used Car

Apr08

Tips for Buying a Used Car

Where to Buy There are many different ways to buy a second hand or used car – here are the three main ways: • From a garage or car dealer • At a car auction • Through a small advertisement on the internet or in the papers From a garage or car dealer In this situation you, as a consumer, are protected by the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980 as you are buying a car for your personal use from a person whose normal business...

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Financing a Car Purchase

Apr08

Financing a Car Purchase

Finance In post bubble, Ireland finance is proving very difficult to get. So before you think makes, model, engine size, upholstery and colours it is essential to work how you are going to finance the purchase of your new car. Generally, your options are a hire purchase agreement, a personal loan or a lease. Hire purchase With limited lending funds from banks hire purchase is now one the most the most common form of finance. Under a...

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Our Jargon Buster

Apr08

Our Jargon Buster

ABS – Anti Lock Brakes or anti lock braking system are designed to help the driver maintain some steering ability and avoid skidding while brakingAirbags – Designed to prevent serious head injuries in the event of an accident, airbags are often available for drivers, passengers, side impact and head impacts (curtain airbags). Auto – Automatic transmission – a car with no clutch or manual gears. Select the “drive” function...

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