Louth has one of highest driver fatality incidents

MID YEAR ROAD SAFETY REVIEW SHOWS LOUTH DRIVER FATALITIES

Louth was among the top three counties in Ireland where drivers fatalities were highest during the first half of 2018, according to a new report.

The Garda and RSA Mid Year Road Safety Review revealed that Louth had among the highest number of road deaths involving the driver of a vehicle.

Four drivers were killed on Louth roads between January 1st and June 30th this year, the highest in the north east.

Only Cork with six driver fatalities had a higher number of people behind the wheel who died as a result of a road traffic collision.

The report showed that nationally 78 people died on Irish roads in 73 collisions. This represents 3% more collisions and 3% more deaths compared to Garda data for the same period in 2017. The RSA has warned that, if the current trend continues, up to 78 more people could die before the end of 2018.

The review also indicated that April and June were the worst months for road fatalities. The figures also revealed that half of fatalities happened from Friday to Sunday. There were 17 fatalities between midnight and 6am (22%). The majority of these (11) occurred on Saturday and Sunday morning.

Commenting on the review, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross T.D, said: ‘ The statistics are disappointing. After seeing a reduction of 11% in the first half of 2017, that positive trend has been reversed in 2018. It shows the need for ongoing vigilance by road users, a greater level of visible Garda presence on our roads and robust traffic legislation.’

Moyagh Murdock, RSA CEO said: ‘ These statistics show that it’s the behaviour of road users on rural roads, our local roads which poses the greatest danger to people. Simple changes in behaviour can help to save lives. Wearing high visibility clothing when walking or cycling, particularly in the hours of darkness, is essential to be being seen on our roads. In addition, I would urge all drivers and passengers to make sure that buckling their seatbelt is the first thing they do before setting off on a journey. Sadly we continue to see fatalities where a vehicle occupant was not wearing a seatbelt and therefore had no protection in a collision.’

Chief Superintendent Finbarr Murphy, Garda National Roads Policing Bureau, said: ‘I appeal to the public to act responsibly and practice good road safety habits. In particular, I would remind people of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is no longer acceptable in society to drink or take drugs and drive at any time of the year. No one has the right to put other people’s safety and lives in danger through their selfish actions. The members of the Roads Policing Unit will continue over the second half of