According to the Road Safety Authority July is chillingly the most lethal month of the year to use Ireland’s roads. In fact according to the RSA during the ten year period between 1999 to 2008 a total of 376 lives were lost during the month of July alone which makes an average of 38 people dying in this month making it the killer month of the year on our roads.
Mr. Noel Brett, CEO, RSA, said “The seasonal increase in fatalities during the month of July is a clear warning to us all that we cannot afford to be complacent. So I would appeal to all road users to take personal responsibility for their actions and to make this July the safest one yet.”
The additional dangers faced during July include longer hours of sunshine meaning more people walking, running and cycling on the roads plus more people traveling on holidays or to sporting or social events such as concerts or festivals plus there are also more foreign visitors touring Ireland during this time.
Mr. Brett, also said, “Whether you are a motorist, motorcyclist, cyclist or pedestrian you are about to enter the most dangerous time to use Irish roads. I would urge drivers to slow down, never, ever drink or take drugs and drive, and ensure seat belts are worn by all. Pedestrians and cyclists, particularly during the long summer evenings should be aware of their vulnerability and wear high visibility clothing in addition to protective gear.”
“I make a particular appeal to motorcyclists who are at greater risk over the summer months. The advent of warm weather brings more motorcyclists out on to the road and it is imperative that correct helmets, protective clothing, boots and gloves are worn and that motorcyclists are driven in a mature and responsible way with due regard for both your own safety and those with whom you share the road. A Hi Vis vest can be a lifesaver for motorcyclists and the RSA has teamed up with Bike Buyers guide to distribute 40,000 hi vis vests free to motorcyclists this July” he concluded.
