AHEAD of the Easter weekend, police are urging drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians to take extra care on the roads.
According to the latest statistics published by police today (30 March 2018) https://www.psni.police.uk/inside-psni/Statistics/road-traffic-collision-statisticsthe most common principal causation factors for Killed and Seriously Injured (KSI) casualties during 2017 were ‘inattention or attention diverted (95 KSI casualties), followed by ‘excessive speed having regard to conditions’ (85 KSI casualties) and ‘alcohol/drugs driver rider’ (84 KSI casualties).
Chief Inspector Diane Pennington said, “Tragically nine people have already lost their lives on our roads so far this year.
“It is critically important that everyone focuses on road safety, as our statistics indicate that there is an increased risk of collisions during public holidays.”
“In the coming days we will be paying particular attention to our road network and will be liaising closely with our An Garda Síochána Traffic Corps colleagues in the border counties, specifically looking for road users taking unnecessary and potentially life-changing risks.
“With many school children and young people enjoying the holidays, road users should also keep an eye out for increased numbers of children using or crossing roads, particularly close to parks and leisure amenities, in addition to junctions and bus stops.
“Pedestrians must pay attention to their environment, whether that means not getting distracted by friends or mobile devices, or being especially careful when walking on country roads by walking against the traffic flow or by wearing highly visible clothing.
“With the brighter evenings we are particularly mindful of motorcyclists taking to the roads, so we’re encouraging Bikers to ensure their motorcycles and safety equipment are in good working order, that they ride defensively and that if they haven’t already done so, consider booking a training session on our Bikesafe programme.
“In addition, drivers need to be alert to the presence of motorcyclists using the road network, particularly when emerging from and turning into junctions.
“Cyclists also need to remember they are amongst the most vulnerable road users, so we recommend wearing a helmet, always using front and rear lights, not listening to music players and keeping aware of their surroundings.
“At the same time, drivers must be aware of cyclists, paying particular care at junctions, traffic lights, when opening vehicle doors after parking. Most importantly, drivers need to give cyclists enough room when overtaking.
“Police will continue to robustly enforce the law to make Northern Ireland’s roads safer. Everyone shares the responsibility to prevent deaths and injuries on our roads.
“All we ask is that drivers slow down, never drive after drinking or taking drugs, wear a seat belt, drive with greater care and attention and don’t use mobile phones while driving.”
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