Driving In Ireland - Your Essential Guide
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Destinations.
Driving in Ireland: Your Essential Guide
Introduction
Visiting Ireland? You'll likely bring your car via ferry from Britain or opt to hire one upon arrival. Here’s what you need to know to navigate the Emerald Isle smoothly.
Car Hire Tips
When renting a car, be aware that automatics are significantly pricier than manuals.
Fuel Costs
Expect to pay around 1.20 euros per liter for petrol, equivalent to 80 pence sterling or $1.50 USD?"roughly $6 per US gallon. Diesel is slightly cheaper. Most rental cars offer fuel efficiency over 40 miles per gallon.
Understanding Distances
Ireland may surprise you with its size. Driving from one end to the other takes about seven hours. The island comprises two countries: the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, with the latter being part of Britain. It takes about two hours to drive from Dublin to Belfast on the motorway, and four to six hours from Dublin to Cork, depending on traffic.
Speed Limits and Roads
Motorways are primarily around Dublin with a speed limit of 120 km/h (75 mph). National roads, such as the N7, N8, and N25, have a limit of 100 km/h (62 mph), while local roads are limited to 80 km/h (50 mph). Expect an average speed of 40 mph off motorways due to town traffic.
Speed Enforcement
Speed limits are enforced by the Gardaí (pronounced gar-DEE). Unlike their British counterparts, they may hide to catch speeding motorists. I’ve driven 30,000 miles annually in Ireland, so this comes from experience.
Dealing with the Gardaí
If you’re driving a UK-registered car, the Gardaí might overlook minor infractions. However, those with Irish rental cars might attract attention but are often let go if they're tourists. Currently, only Irish drivers accrue penalty points, though fines apply to all.
Safety Tips
Driving in Ireland can be challenging, especially between 11 PM and 6 AM. Be aware of drink driving, infrequent seat belt use, and aggressive driving. Always drive defensively and anticipate unexpected situations.
Conclusion
Stay informed, drive carefully, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture that Ireland has to offer. Safe travels!
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