Motorists urged to be aware of deer on Macroom bypass as warning signs installed

Temporary signage has been erected to warn motorists of the potential danger caused by deer crossings. Source: Garda Síochána – Cork, Kerry, and Limerick – Southern Region Facebook
GARDAÍ have issued a warning to motorists travelling on the Macroom bypass N22, urging them to be aware of deer in the area.
The warning comes following a series of road collisions in recent weeks, whereby drivers have reported a high number of deer crossings on the newly opened bypass.
Temporary warning signs have been erected on the new section of the N22 Macroom road to warn road users of the crossing wildlife and to be wary of the potential danger.
An Garda Síochána of the Cork, Kerry, and Limerick Southern Region shared:
“Motorists travelling on the N22 Macroom bypass from Carrigaphooca west of Macroom, to Toonlane, just east of Ballymakeera will have seen new signage. This is due to a number of road traffic collisions with deer crossing the road.”
Gardaí for the Southern region reminded motorists to be aware of the current speed limits and to slow down where possible.
Macroom councillor Eileen Lynch said: “We do appear to have had a massive influx of deer in the area in the last 12 to 14 months.”
The North Cork Cllr said that the issue of deer crossing was not “relevant at the time” during the original planning of the Macroom bypass.
However, she went on to say that the issue is becoming increasingly more common, not just in Cork but across the country.
A representative for the Irish Deer Commission has said:
The organisation has issued a list of advice for motorists who encounter deer on the busy road.
“Reduce speed where you see a warning sign and stay alert. Prepare to stop, never swerve as you could hit another obstacle or vehicle. When you see a deer dip your head lights, as the full beam may cause the deer to freeze.”