Limerick motorists warned as number of road deaths in first half of 2023 worst in six years

THE Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána have issued a warning to Limerick motorists as new data indicates three road deaths have occurred on Limerick roads so far this year, for a subtotal of 95 road deaths across Irish roads from January 1. 

"If this [trend] continues, we could see 168 homes with an empty place at their table this Christmas time," stated Sam Waide, CEO of RSA.

The data, released as of 26 July 2023, marks a 10% increase compared to the same period in 2022.

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The report highlights a particularly alarming trend among the 16-25 age group, with twenty-three young people in this category losing their lives so far this year.

This age group now accounts for one in four road deaths, raising concerns about their vulnerability and safety practices while driving. Astonishingly, the number of 16-25-year-olds killed in the first half of 2023 is almost equivalent to the combined fatalities during the same period in both 2021 and 2022.

Night-time travel also seems to be a significant factor in the rising fatalities, with almost half (49%) of all deaths occurring between 8 pm and 8 am, when the roads are at their quietest.

Sam Waide, CEO of RSA, expressed his concern, saying: "The figures released today are alarming. Clearly, the progress we have made in road safety over the last number of years is at risk. The evidence suggests that as a society, we are losing momentum when it comes to road safety - with tragic consequences."

Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, Roads Policing and Community Engagement, emphasised their commitment to promoting road safety, saying: "Every fatality on our roads is one too many. We will play our part in keeping the roads safe for all."

Liz O’Donnell, Chairperson of RSA, called for collective action, stating: "We all need to reflect on these figures and re-evaluate our own behaviors and habits as a result. Taking simple road safety steps can have a potentially life-saving impact, such as putting away the mobile phone when driving and driving within the speed limit."

The safety of all Limerick motorists depends on collective efforts to reverse this devastating trend. To do this, the RSA is intensifying public education and awareness campaigns, with a focus on targeting the main contributing factors for road deaths and serious injuries, with special attention to younger male cohorts.