General
Drivers to be tested on safe driving
By Noel Gibbons
27, Aug 2008 - 20:23

Car-owners in the west of Ireland are to have their safe driving skills put to the test in a special road safety event at one of the region’s leading racecourses.

Mayo County Council hope the Driver’s Challenge event at Ballinrobe Racecourse will alert  motorists to the need to drive safely.

The day will be launched by International rally driver,Aaron McHale (Aaron's car will be on display for the event).

“Drivers will be tested on their reaction times, how they handle an obstacle course, and how they maintain their car with special emphasis on ensuring that the car is safe and sound for the road,” said Noel Gibbons, Road Safety Officer of Mayo County Council, Which will take place on Sunday 2pm, September 14^th .The event will involve the Gardai, paramedics, fire officers, RSA, civil defence, bus Eireann  the Irish defence forces and representatives from various advanced driving companies.

A Graphic, realistic mock crash scene will be used to force home the message to the crowd by the emergency services.

Road Safety staff will be on hand to offer information and advice at the event about the need to be visible during the darkening evenings, for motorists to drive carefully ,  for parents to use the correct car child restraints and cycle safety.

At the event – in support of Western Care – the young motorists will also hear tales of roadside tragedies from members of the emergency services in Co. Mayo. Hear Micilin Feeney road Traffic victim tell his story which will change your and maybe your families driving habits.

''The day is promised to be a fun day for all the family with music...D.J, bouncing castles,obstacle courses,slides,pillow bash,pony hops,rodeo bull,giant scalextric,  ect'' said Mr Joe Brett Western Care.

To cater for the considerable number of young people who have an interest in motor-sports, a number of motor-related companies will display Formula 2, Drift, Sports, Performance, and Modified cars on the day.