Irish RSOs issue appeal in wake of ‘terrifying’ casualty figures

Road safety professionals in Roscommon, Galway, Mayo and Clare have made an appeal to road users as road deaths and serious injuries rise in these regions.

In the period Jan-July 2011 there were 15 road deaths in the west of Ireland, but to date in 2012, 23 people have lost their lives on the roads in the region – the highest number since 2008.

In response to the figures, road users are being warned that they are entering the worst time of the year for deaths and injuries on the roads.

Noel Gibbons, Mayo CC RSO, said: “Driving patterns are different in the summer. The good weather and the holiday season will bring a lot of people onto unfamiliar roads and see longer journey times.

“The road safety data is terrifying. The big killers are speeding, drink driving and not wearing a seatbelt, but long cross-country journeys also bring the danger of fatigue.”

Martin Cashen, regional traffic superintendent western region, said: “For safety reasons, motorists are advised to turn on dipped headlights to improve visibility while driving. Pedestrians are advised to take heed of traffic while crossing the roads, particularly at busy junctions or when their view is obstructed.”

For more information contact Noel Gibbons on 0877870055.