Watch out for Luas, motorists warned

MOTORISTS have been warned to be extra vigilant after the first collision between a car and a Luas tram.

The tram, which had just left St Stephen’s Green and was travelling south on Harcourt Street, collided with the car turning onto a side street.

In what has been described as a minor accident, the wing mirror of the car was damaged and the side of the tram scratched.

Around 300 passengers, among more then 60,000 who have used the service since Wednesday, briefly disembarked but were allowed back on within minutes. The tram continued its journey to Sandyford.

The collision was one of a couple of minor incidents reported in two days. On Wednesday, passengers had to switch to another tram after a metal object jammed the electric doors.

Yesterday’s accident happened shortly after 9am. The car was attempting to turn into Clonmel Street when it was struck. The driver was not injured.

Tom Manning, of the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA), said the new light railway system was absolutely safe.

“Clearly there is a risk, it is never risk-free, but we have done everything possible.”

He urged people to take extra care and be vigilant. “People should exercise caution and obey the rules of the road,” said Mr Manning said.

The RPA said 40,000 people used the Luas on Wednesday and the same number or more were expected yesterday. Extra trains were put on to meet the demand.

Over the first two days, the trams were regularly beating the 22-minute target laid down by operator Connex, the RPA said.

There have been teething problems identified by users, including a lack of shops selling tickets along the route of the Green Line from Sandyford to St Stephen’s Green.

Only 14 outlets are selling weekly tickets. While commuters using some of the stops are well served, no shops in Ballally, Windy Arbour, Cowper or Beechwood are selling the tickets.