Louth marks EU day free of road deaths

LOUTH road users are being urged to Support ‘European Day without a Road Death’ on Wednesday next, September 21st 2016.

An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority are leading the way in support of the EU initiative, known as Project EDWARD.

Adrian O’Sullivan, Road Safety Officer at Louth County Council said:

‘ The aim of Project EDWARD is that no one should die on the roads of Europe on Wednesday 21st September 2016.

So on 21st September, think about how you use the roads. Small actions can lead to significant, life-changing improvements.

He added that every person who uses the roads ‘ has the power to make a real difference by making a simple choice – to behave as a responsible and safe road user, every time you use the roads.’

The latest garda statistics showed a frightening increase.

‘As of 12th September 2016, a total of 129 people have been killed on Irish roads, an increase of 19 on the number killed in the same period last year.’

‘Closer to home, unfortunately six people have lost their lives on the roads of County Louth to date in 2016 and figures estimate that for every death that occurs there are 4 permanently disabling injuries, 8 serious injuries and 50 minor injuries.’

He added: ‘I appeal to all road users in Co Louth to ensure their own personal safety and responsible road use while at the same time contributing to the safety of other road users.’

Mr. O’Sullivan explained that road safety is a shared responsibility, just as the country’s roads are a shared space.

‘None of us has the right to behave in a way that endangers others. You may think it’s ok to drive a little bit above the speed limit, or to just have a couple of drinks and drive home.

‘But the tragic reality is that these actions could have serious and devastating consequences for others.’

To pledge your support for ‘European Day without a Road Death’ visit www.tispol.org/ edward and let us all work together to save lives on Wednesday 21st September 2016.