RSA Initiative: ‘Drivers, leave us kids alone’

THE Road Safety Authority has launched a campaign aimed directly at schoolchildren in light of statistics that show that 141 children under 14 died on the nation’s roads between 1998 and 2005.

The statistics compiled by the RSA show that a further 5,732 were injured in accidents during the same period.

Of the fatalities 48.9% were pedestrians and 35% were car passengers.

It found that 36% of fatalities and 57.5% of injuries occurred in built up areas.

On a positive note, however, it found there has been a 72% reduction in the number of children under 14 killed on the roads annually between 1998 and 2005.

In response to the statistics, the RSA has teamed up with the Mallow-based Barry Group to launch the Copybook Initiative.

The project will see a pack of three special copybooks carrying the RSA’s ‘Drivers, leave us kids alone’ road safety message being distributed around the country before schools return next week.

The books will be for sale in 200 Costcutter and Quik Pick stores nationwide.

Noel Brett, chief executive of the Road Safety Authority said: “Children are particularly vulnerable at this time of year as we face into another back to school period. The copybook initiative is an excellent opportunity to reinforce our road safety message on a daily basis in schools throughout the country.

“I also take this opportunity to urge all parents to make sure their children know the safe cross code, wear high-visibility clothing whenever possible and ensure they are belted up or using the correct child car seats on every trip.

“Parents are best placed to teach children about road safety. But remember a child will do as you do, not as you say. So please set a good example yourself.”