Fatalities on Irish roads up by 9.1 per cent so far this year

Since the publication of the first Road Safety Strategy, 20 years ago in 1998, there has been a significant reduction in fatalities on Irish roads, 458 deaths occurred on Irish roads in 1998, compared with 146 last year (2018), representing a 68 per cent reduction in fatalities. 

But, unfortunately this year, deaths on Irish roads are up by 9.1 per cent, six more people have been killed on Irish roads to date (June 13) compared to similar period last year.

Statistics from An Garda Síochána reveal that 72 people have been killed so far this year on Irish roads, a worrying increase on the 66 people killed at this stage last year.

The Minister for Transport Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross and the RSA announced that the next Government Road Safety Strategy will run from 2021 to 2030 and that the process of developing the new strategy, will involve consultation with key stakeholders and analysis of international experience and best practice. The strategy is expected to address current and new road safety challenges including the impact of new technology, vulnerable road users, serious injuries and killer behaviours.