Keeping up the drive to all stay safe

THREE families are suffering unimaginable heartache in the run-up to Christmas after the third fatal collision in 48 hours.

While the number of death toll on the country’s roads has been reduced in recent years there has been a worrying increase in fatal accidents in the past few weeks.

Gardai have urged motorists to be careful and vigilant as the winter takes hold resulting in multiple dangers for drivers and pedestrians.

The Road Safety Authority has warned drivers, pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists to be “on guard” every time they use the roads, especially during cold weather.

Irish roads have always and will always be a dangerous place for drivers and pedestrians but there are precautions that can be taken to lessen the risk of accidents.

While there is nothing to indicate that the latest fatalities were anything but unfortunate accidents, drivers have a responsibility to other road users when they get behind the wheel.

While simple carelessness is responsible for many accidents the behaviour of some drivers can leave a lot to be desired. It’s not uncommon for cars travelling at over 100kmh to be only a few metres from the vehicle in front.

Some years ago a safety campaign reminded drivers that accidents don’t happen, they’re caused. That is as true now as it was then and each and every one of us has a role to play in keeping ourselves and each other safe.