Slight increase in road deaths this year as RSA and Gardaí urge safety this weekend

An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) are urging all road users to take care this bank holiday weekend as figures show there has been an eight percent increase in the number of road deaths so far this year.

The appeal comes as RSA collision data shows that the May Bank Holiday is a high risk period for collisions with a total of seven people killed and 83 people seriously injured over the weekend in the last five years.

Last year’s bank holiday was a tragic weekend for road safety with four fatalities and 27 people seriously injured.

Chief Superintendent Jane Humphries, Garda National Roads Policing Bureau said: “As the May Bank Holiday weekend approaches, we urge you to prioritise safety on the roads.

“The Gardaí will have a high visibility presence this weekend and a focus on the four lifesaver offences; speeding, mobile phone use while driving, seatbelt compliance and intoxicated driving.

“It’s up to each and every one of us to do our part to keep ourselves and others safe.

“We focus on these offences as research tells us that they are the biggest causes of fatal and serious injuries on the road.

“You can do your part this weekend by driving within the speed limit and according to the road and traffic conditions, putting on your seatbelt and ensuring all passengers do likewise before commencing your journey.

“When behind the wheel, ignore your phone it’s not worth the distraction and finally never, ever drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs and remember that you may still be over the limit the following morning. By following these simple guidelines, we can all do our part to prevent accidents and keep our roads safe.

“Let’s make this May Bank Holiday weekend a safe and enjoyable one for all.”