Passengers travelling from Cork to Dublin Heuston on Saturday evening were left stranded for hours after their train struck a herd of deer on the tracks.
The 6.45pm service was between Limerick Junction and Thurles when it hit the herd, with the train being forced to stop due to damage.
As the train could not go any further, the passengers were forced to wait until the next service came along hours later at 9pm.
The 6.45pm service was between Limerick Junction and Thurles when it hit the herd. Pic: Tom Honan
There has been a recent surge of vehicle collisions with deer in Munster, with several motorists having hit the animals in the region over the past few weeks.
Deer are more frequently seen near roads during the autumn season and motorists are advised to stop immediately and pull the car over to a safe spot if they hit one.
If it is safe to do so, they are then advised to get out and carefully examine the damage.
As the train could not go any further, the passengers were forced to wait until the next service came along hours later at 9pm. Pic: Mark Gusev/Shutterstock
The Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland advised: ‘A deer collision can range from minor bumper damage to serious vehicle damage, windscreen damage, coolant leaks, airbag deployment or a vehicle that cannot be driven safely.
‘The first priority is safety. Stop only when safe, avoid standing in live traffic, turn on hazard lights and check whether anyone is injured. If the deer is injured, do not approach it or try to move it.
‘After the immediate safety checks, assess whether the car can be driven. Damage to lights, steering, tyres, windscreen, radiator, bonnet, bumper or cooling system may mean roadside assistance or recovery is needed.’
Deer are more frequently seen near roads during the autumn season. Pic: Fran Veale
There is a particularly busy deer crossing in Cork, with many animals spotted on Grotto Hill between Ballinspittle and Kinsale.
Locals have posted on Facebook message boards about deer in the area, though motorists across the country are advised to keep a look out.