Garda issue advice to drivers over dark winter period
An Garda Síochána is issuing an urgent road safety appeal to all road users ahead of the busy winter driving period, as provisional figures show that 123 lives have been lost on Ireland’s roads to date. This is twelve more deaths than during the same period in both 2021 and 2019.
Garda are therefore targeting locations that our analysis has shown the major risk of fatal collisions or those that cause serious injury.
Speaking today, Assistant Commissioner, Paula Hilman, Roads Policing and Community Engagement, An Garda Síochána said, “When a person is fatally injured in a road traffic collision it is more than a statistic. This is a life lost; a son or daughter, mother or father, a sibling, a friend or colleague. This tragedy can visit any family and we must all examine our behaviour while driving and ensure that we do not contribute to fatal and serious injury collisions.
“It is expected that large numbers will be travelling on our roads this winter period. We want everyone to stay safe and enjoy the weekend. Remember that every decision you make on the road counts.”
Assistant Commissioner Hilman said that Gardaí nationwide will be focusing on detecting the key lifesaver offences such as speeding, driving under the influence, non-wearing of seat-belts and using a mobile phone while driving.
“Mandatory Intoxicant Testing (MIT ) checkpoints will be operated on roads throughout the country, and so I implore drivers to never drive under the influence of an intoxicant. You not only face a very high risk of losing your licence, there is high probability that you will be involved in or cause a serious collision.
Advice for road users
Slow down and allow adequate time for your journey
Be mindful of the prevailing weather conditions
Always ensure you and every passenger wears a seatbelt
Never, ever drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Do not use a mobile phone while driving
Pay attention for vulnerable road users and children
Book a taxi, use public transport or designate a driver if planning to socialise
Only walk in well-lit streets and on footpaths
If walking in rural areas please wear high-vis
