This is short guide for anyone planning on driving in Ireland either on holidays or a business trip. Irish roads can be confusing and sometimes baffling. The same rules are not applied absolutely and differ depending on the size and structure of the road. It is also important to say that Irish drivers themselves are not the most helpful to anyone who is unsure of their way. My best advice I can possible give you is if you think you have gone the wrong way, pull over and check a map or Sat Nav. DO NOT DRIVE AT 10Km LOOKING OUT FOR ROAD SIGNS! Best case scenario, you are hooted by an angry motorist. Worst case scenario you are run into from behind.

As I found when driving in the US, there is no better place to get used to the road your driving that learning as you drive along. But I thought these few tips curtosy of Irish Car Rentals And Europcar might help calm a few nerves.

Roundabouts can be a headache for any US drivers as they aren’t familiar with them. Basic Points:

When approaching a roundabout, stop and give way to traffic already on the roundabout.

Give way to traffic coming from your left hand side.

Indicate! Always helps as your blind spot is increased on a roundabout.

Road Signs:

The most important thing is obviously to drive on the left hand side. The lines on the road you are driving tell you what you can do for example:

solid white line means no overtaking.

A broken white line means you can overtake if there is no oncoming traffic.

A broken yellow line on your left denotes a ‘hard shoulder’. This means in times of emergency you make pull over into this space and stop. If you break down and if possible, make for the hard shoulder.

Always be aware of bus lanes, these are limited to buses and taxis during certain hours of the day.

Cycle lanes are denoted by brown paint on the road. Always be mindful in traffic that a cyclist may be coming up your inside.

Good luck and stay safe.