[PR] Road Users don't go down this road again!

Victor

.

Road Users don’t go down this road again!

July The Most Lethal Month Of The Year

Motorists, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists across the country have today, Monday 2nd July been warned that July is the most lethal time to use Irish Roads.

Figures released today by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) show that over the last 10 years (1997 to 2006, see Table 1) an average of 40 people have died on the roads during the month of July. The average monthly fatality rate over a full year is approximately 30.

“Whether you are a motorist, motorcyclist, cyclist or pedestrian you are about to enter the most dangerous time to use the roads.” Said Mr. Noel Brett, Chief Executive, Road Safety Authority.

“During July there are added dangers as more people are travelling to and from sporting, cultural and social events and there are increasing numbers of Irish and foreign visitors touring the country. In addition school children are on holidays and with the finer weather and longer hours of daylight more people are walking and cycling on the roads.”

“So I would urge drivers to slow down, never, ever drink and drive, and expect the unexpected. Pedestrians and cyclists, particularly during the long summer evenings should wear high visibility clothing and be conscious of how difficult it is for drivers to see clearly at dusk and dawn.” said Mr. Brett.

Mr. Brett also appealed to parents this Summer. “Now that school holidays have commenced please take extra care to keep your young children safe on the road. Where are they playing, where are they cycling. Is it safe for them, what risks do they face?”

He added, “For parents of teenagers and young adults please do not make a vehicle available to an inexperienced driver. Satisfy yourself that your young person is accompanied by an appropriately qualified and responsible person. Know who will be travelling in the vehicle and where they will be. Don’t allow unsupervised driving. Avoid situations involving travel with groups of peers, events where alcohol or drugs may be consumed and satisfy yourself that your young person is responsible and aware of the risks they face as a driver or passenger. As a parent taking a hard decision and not making a car available could prevent devastation and grief for your family.”

To date there have been 169 road deaths in 2007. To the same date last year, the figure was 202. This means 33 fewer people have lost their lives in 2007 compared to 2006.

“Behind these numbers lies unimaginable grief and anger at such a senseless loss of life and suffering. Road users simply must take personal responsibility for their actions. At the end of the day individuals actions and behaviours determine who dies, or is injured and which families are devastated. I appeal to each road user to get the message and please do not add any further to this toll of misery.” Concluded Mr. Brett

ENDS