Safety poster For Motorcyclists
Luas And Bikers
As I'm sure they whole country knows by now (let alone Dublin) The
first of the Luas lines is due to open in June. This is the Sandyford to St
Stephens Green line the Tallaght line is due to open later this year. As you
can see from the poster above the Luas lines will introduce a new set of problems
on top of all the existing road surface issues we already have. You need to
remember that the lines should be treated the same way you treat those horrible
metal plates and manhole covers they will give NO grip especially in the wet.
So any manoeuvring you may need to do should either be done before you get to
the lines or if you have to manoeuvre on the lines keep as upright as you possible
can.
I have been speaking to Ger Hannon from the company who runs the Luas line about
what we can expect when the lines are running and the situation regarding lights
etc.
1 Traffic Lights:
The trams operate a scat system, which sends a signal to the next set of traffic
lights along to either hold the traffic on a red signal on to start the lights
sequence to change. Technically the tram could also be held at a red light but
will in the main get priority. This means that traffic light sequences could
be altered so if you are used to sitting at a set of lights for a certain length
of time don't get ready to pull away when you think they should be changing
as there may well be a tram coming. DON'T be an amber gambler if the lights
should change while you are on the lines you WILL come off worse in the crash.Ger
did say that he understood why bikes pull to front of a queue at lights but
said to be sure that you are well away from the lines if you do so.
2 Speed:
The trams operate at a maximum of 70 kph when in offroad areas and between 30
and 50 kph on road in areas that the public can access. You can expect them
to slow down in the vicinity of schools and anywhere there is a danger of the
public unexpectedly crossing the lines. The drivers operate on a line of sight
basis. The drivers of the trams all hold current driving licences and are taught
to drive them as if they are buses and not as if they are trains on a separate
track from the roads
3 Manoeuvring:
Trams are a fixed object in as much as they travel along tracks. But keep an
eye on where the tracks are heading, If you have to make a turn over tracks
remember that trams will be coming along every few minutes so don't forget to
do your lifesaver (look over your shoulder) before you start your turn. Just
because a tram has just passed you, do not assume you have time CHECK FIRST.
Finally tram drivers have good all round vision; a large windscreen in front
of them and a video for rear observations and so shouldn't have any blind spots
but they are a large heavy object with a longer stopping time (think articulated
lorry rather than bus) and give them a wide berth. REMEMBER IN AN ACCIDENT YOU
WILL COME OFF WORSE.Think of what happens to wily coyote in collision with a
lorry and remember that could be you.
Linda o'Loideoin