Councillor's frightening experience that led to call for compulsory high viz

A motion put forward by Cllr Michael McClafferty (Ind) calls for compulsory wearing of high visibility clothing or armbands by pedestrians.

The councillor’s motion to Monday’s meeting of Donegal County Council states: “"That this Council write to the TII and the Health and Safety Authority to  bring in compulsory high visibility vest wearing or at least armbands so that  drivers have every chance of seeing pedestrians walking from a safe  distance."

Cllr McClafferty recalled a frightening experience where he came upon a person running on the road and who subsequently fell on a dark night.

“Just recently I came across somebody running on the N56 with only the small light of a phone,” he said. “I was driving towards them. There was a light and then there was no light.

"I stopped the car and he was lying on the side of the road - not touched by me, he had tripped while running. 

“I asked him was he ok and he said he was just out running.”

Cllr McClafferty said he pointed out to the pedestrian that he couldn’t be seen.

“It’s not a new problem,” he told fellow councillors. “But there are so many people now out walking late and night and early in the morning with no high viz, no armbands, not even lights. 

“We need it mandatory that if you are out running, or walking with your dog, that you have high viz and a good torch or headlight. Because we are going to see people with very serious injuries.

“It’s not fair on drivers who have to live with it for the rest of their days, and the person may lose their life or have serious injuries.”

The councillor referred to a number of particularly dangerous spots on the N56, including one where there had been a fatality. 

“Anybody can walk into any garda station and get as many high viz vests as they want for free but they are not doing it.”

Donegal County Council’s Director of Roads and Transportation Bryan Cannon added his support.

“Pedestrians are amongst the most vulnerable road users,” he said.

“Road traffic law obliges pedestrians to exercise care. 

He said that the Road Safety Authority (RSA) advice is to always wear high viz clothing even during the day, and to carry a light at night.

Mr Cannon said that high viz vests were available free from Donegal County Council at any public services centre, as well as from gardaí as previously mentioned by Cllr McClafferty. 

It was proposed and accepted that e-scooters be included in any correspondence on the matter.

Cllr McClafferty said: “There are many things in life that we can’t sort. But I think this is one thing we can solve, and save a lot of houses a lot of pain. 

“Go to the garda station and get a free vest and go to your local hardware store and spend €10 on a good torch. 

The motion was seconded by Cllr John Shéamuis Ó Fearraigh (SF) and it was agreed that it would be followed up.