asked the Minister for Local Government if he will take steps to ensure the widespread use of hazard flasher units on motor vehicles in order to reduce accidents arising from broken down or stationary vehicles on the roadways at night.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Motor Vehicle Hazard Warnings.
6.
I take it that the Deputy is referring to a device which causes all four amber flashing type direction indicators to be used simultaneously on a motor vehicle. Article 49 (3) of the Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations, 1963, as amended by the Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) (Amendment) Regulations, 1967, permits the use of such a device on a stationary vehicle to indicate that it has broken down or to warn against danger. However, I have not sufficient evidence of its value as a hazard warning to justify the mandatory fitting and use of this device on motor vehicles or the mounting of a publicity campaign advocating its use. The matter will be kept under review however.
Has the Minister investigated it?
Yes; I am aware of it and it is being investigated at present.
Is the Minister aware of the fact that this device could be incorporated in every car at very nominal cost?
Yes. As I say, I have not sufficient evidence yet of its value but it is being kept under review, and if it is deemed to be of such value as to make it worthwhile making it mandatory to have this device fitted, then it will be done.
Is the Minister aware that it is being used abroad with great success and has been recommended in other countries?
I am aware that it is being used in other countries.
Would the Minister not accept the results of their investigations?
They will be taken into consideration.