MOTORISTS are being urged to take extra care to ensure that their oil tanks are secure given the increase in the number of oils spills on the county’s roads.
Donegal’s Road Safety Officer Brian O’Donnell, asked all drivers of agricultural vehicles, fuel delivery trucks and hauliers to ensure that their fuel tanks are secure.
Mr O’Donnell said: “If you run a diesel vehicle don’t overfill your tank and remember to replace your fuel cap properly and ensure that your vehicle is well serviced. If you see a problem, get it fixed immediately before it causes problems to others.
“Apart from the cost to the Council to clean up these spills, these spills can be a contributory factor to a traffic collision leading to serious injury or the loss of a life. By taking extra care with your fuel cap, you are not only increasing safety on the road but you are also saving fuel.”
Mr O’Donnell warned oil or diesel spills can cause vehicles to skid, swerve and lose control on patches of diesel, endangering drivers, passengers, other road users, pedestrians and property.
“Wet weather can worsen slicks and, coupled with bad light, can sometimes make them impossible to see. Diesel can take up to 100 days to break down so can remain on the road surface for a long period, often reappearing only during rain”.
Mr O’Donnell said as well as causing hazards on the road, diesel also corrodes the bitumen road surface causing longer term safety problems. Also if you drop diesel on the roadway you could be recharged with the cost of repairing the damage.
Early reporting is essential, according to Mr O’Donnell, and he said the earlier it is reported the sooner it can be dealt with.