Sir, - I have just returned from my first visit to Ireland. In seven days, driving a mere 500 miles in total, I witnessed two near accidents and was innocently almost involved in another.
The problem, however, is not just the standard of driving, alarming though this may be. There are also features of road design and maintenance which I would suggest need attention. During my stay I was struck by the so-called hard shoulder - frequently surfaced identically to the main carriageway - which has become an unofficial slow lane for speeding bullies to push other traffic into; white or yellow lining which ceases with little or no warning; hidden junctions with inadequate warning or road linings; a sloppy regard for safety at roadworks; poorly sited direction signs. Even the new "N" roads appear to be engineered for danger.
I shall visit your beautiful country again but shall drive as little as possible next time. - Yours, etc.
John Richardson Dawes, Chute Street, Newtown, Exeter, England.