Traffic in Ireland

They drive on the left. However, as in Germany, the rule is: right before left.

Maximum speeds

On motorways the speed limit is 120 km/h, outside built-up areas it is 100 km/h. In built-up areas, as in our country, it is 50 km/h, or 60 km/h where indicated by signs.

Road conditions

A great deal of road work is currently being carried out. Therefore, there is often a risk of encountering large amounts of gravel on the road, and bends are no exception. Furthermore, Irish roads are adapted to the landscape – there are numerous nasty potholes and many uneven surfaces, which often become apparent in bends and are not visible to the naked eye. Driving carelessly or too fast, and testing the limits of lean angle, can lead to a swift and expensive end to your trip.

Traffic signs

The roads are sometimes creatively painted with signs like " Slow ," " Very Slow ," " Dead Slow ," or " Dangerous Bend(s) ahead ." While these signs are quite common, there are places where you should take them especially seriously; it could be your last turn with your motorcycle intact.

Regarding road signs, in Ireland, not only distances but also speed limits are now given in kilometers, not miles. Furthermore, you should a) not exceed the posted speed limit (we've been told it can be expensive if you get caught) and b) not consider it the recommended minimum speed, as the signs rarely reflect the actual road conditions. In other words: you can't always drive 100 km/h just because the sign says 100.

“Wild” animals

In rural areas, one must always expect to encounter free-roaming sheep or even cows that may be milling about on the roadside or in the middle of the road. It is advisable to drive past them cautiously and at a moderate speed, as some animals are easily startled and might suddenly decide to cross the road.

Road users

The Irish don't necessarily look in their mirrors very often, but when they notice a motorcycle behind them, they usually quickly and politely make way so that overtaking is possible even with a solid line.

From personal experience: especially the roundabouts should be approached with caution, as not every local is familiar with the rules of this otherwise useful roundabout.

You'll quickly notice how calmly the Irish drive; stress and tailgating are foreign concepts there (except in Dublin). Otherwise, the same rules apply as in Germany: drive defensively and anticipate other drivers' needs! Just as calm as the Irish are on the road, some drivers seem equally dreamy behind the wheel.

By the way: Don't worry if you encounter a car flashing its headlights in broad daylight, or if the driver waves their hands wildly and smiles. The oncoming driver isn't being blinded by the headlights, nor are they trying to warn you about speed cameras. In all likelihood, they're simply happy to see bikers coming the other way and are giving an enthusiastic wave. This happened several times on our road trip – regardless of the region or car make. 😉Pedestrians also greet motorcyclists with friendly smiles and waves. For us continental Europeans, this was initially quite disconcerting, as we simply weren't used to it. But you get used to it quickly and happily.

Parking

In towns and cities, you will often find yellow lines along the roadside. A double yellow line means no parking at all, a single yellow line means restricted parking (the times when parking is permitted are indicated on signs attached to streetlights). Parking is unlimited on all other streets. In city centers, you will frequently find yellow signs that read "Control Zone – No Unattended Parking." An unattended parked vehicle is considered a safety hazard and will be dealt with accordingly. Never park on the zigzag markings near crosswalks.

Documents

A national driving licence is sufficient (both the old grey and the pink licences are still valid). Third-party liability insurance is mandatory and the vehicle registration documents must be carried in the vehicle.

The Green Card insurance card is required – as with all journeys abroad.