woman Seriously Injured by Rolling Car in Cork city Incident
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A woman in her 60s is in serious condition at Cork University Hospital after being struck by her own car, which unexpectedly began to roll down a hill on Pophams Road in Cork City earlier today. Gardaรญ (Irish police) are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage to help determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Details of the Incident
According to initial reports, the woman had parked her car, described by witnesses as an SUV, on Pophams Road when it began to roll downhill. In an attempt to stop the vehicle, she was knocked down.
Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene after receiving reports of the incident.The woman was promptly transported to Cork University Hospital for urgent medical attention.
Did You Know? According to the Road Safety Authority (RSA) of Ireland, failing to properly secure a parked vehicle is a common factor in rollaway incidents.
Gardaรญ Inquiry and Appeal
Gardaรญ have launched an investigation into the incident and are appealing to the public for assistance. They are especially interested in speaking with anyone who may have witnessed the event or who possesses camera footage, including dash-cam recordings, from the area at the time. Anyone with information is urged to contact Gurranabraher Garda Station at 021 4946200, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
Pro Tip: When parking on a hill, always turn your wheels towards the curb and engage the parking brake firmly to prevent rollaway incidents.
Road Safety Statistics in Ireland
While investigations are ongoing into this specific incident, road safety remains a critical concern in Ireland. According to the RSA,there were 156 fatalities on Irish roads in 2023,an increase compared to previous years.[[1][road-safety-authority-ireland]
| Year | Fatalities |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 136 |
| 2022 | 155 |
| 2023 | 156 |
Preventing Rollaway Accidents
Rollaway accidents, while sometimes rare, can have devastating consequences. Ensuring that vehicles are properly secured when parked, especially on inclines, is crucial for preventing such incidents. Regular maintenance of parking brakes is also essential. The National highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers guidance on vehicle safety checks and maintenance.[[2][nhtsa-vehicle-safety]
What measures do you take to ensure your car is secure when parked on a hill? How can we raise awareness about the dangers of unsecured vehicles?
Evergreen Insights: Preventing Vehicle Rollaway accidents
Vehicle rollaway accidents,though infrequent,pose a critically important risk,particularly in areas with steep inclines. These incidents often result from a combination of factors, including improperly engaged parking brakes, mechanical failures, and driver error. Understanding the underlying causes and implementing preventive measures is crucial for mitigating the risk of such accidents.
Historical Trends
Historically, rollaway accidents have been a persistent concern, prompting ongoing efforts to improve vehicle safety standards and driver education. Over the years, advancements in parking brake technology and increased awareness campaigns have contributed to a reduction in the frequency of these incidents. However, vigilance remains essential, as even modern vehicles are susceptible to rollaway if proper precautions are not taken.
Context and Contributing Factors
Several factors can contribute to vehicle rollaway accidents. These include:
- Improperly Engaged Parking Brake: Failure to fully engage the parking brake is a primary cause of rollaway incidents.
- Mechanical Failure: Worn or malfunctioning parking brake components can compromise their effectiveness.
- Parking on Inclines: Parking on steep hills increases the risk of rollaway, especially if the vehicle is not properly secured.
- Driver Error: neglecting to turn the wheels towards the curb when parking on a hill can exacerbate the risk.
Preventive Measures
To prevent vehicle rollaway accidents,consider the following measures:
- Engage the Parking Brake fully: Always ensure that the parking brake is fully engaged when parking,especially on inclines.
- Turn Wheels Towards the Curb: When parking on a hill, turn the wheels towards the curb to provide an additional layer of security.
- Regular Maintenance: Have your parking brake system inspected and maintained regularly to ensure proper functioning.
- Use Wheel Chocks: In situations where parking on a steep incline is unavoidable,consider using wheel chocks for added security.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vehicle rollaway Accidents
FAQ
- What are the primary causes of vehicle rollaway accidents?
The primary causes include improperly engaged parking brakes, mechanical failures, and parking on inclines.
- How can I prevent my car from rolling away when parked on a hill?
Always engage the parking brake fully and turn your wheels towards the curb. Regular maintenance of your parking brake system is also crucial.
- What should I do if my car starts to roll away?
Your immediate priority is safety. If possible, try to steer the vehicle away from pedestrians and other vehicles. If it’s safe to do so, attempt to re-engage the parking brake or gently apply the foot brake.
- Are there any specific vehicle types more prone to rollaway accidents?
No specific vehicle type is inherently more prone, but larger vehicles, like SUVs, may require extra attention to ensure the parking brake is fully engaged, especially on inclines.
- Where can I find more information about vehicle safety and maintenance?
You can find valuable resources on the websites of organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Road Safety Authority (RSA).
- What is the role of Gardaรญ in investigating vehicle rollaway incidents?
Gardaรญ investigate such incidents to determine the cause, assess liability, and ensure that appropriate safety measures are in place to prevent future occurrences.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered legal or safety advice. Always consult with qualified professionals for specific guidance.
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[road-safety-authority-ireland]: https://www.rsa.ie/
[nhtsa-vehicle-safety]: https://www.nhtsa.gov/