Report drives home road safety message

YOUNG men, speed and the weekend — a deadly combination that claims the lives of scores of road users in Co Donegal every year.

A study published yesterday confirms the long-held belief that young male drivers are more likely to be killed or seriously injured behind the wheel than any other group.

The report, compiled by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and the gardaí, shows that 307 road users were killed in collisions in Co Donegal over the period 1996-2009. This amounts to 6% of all road deaths in Ireland despite the county making up only 3.5% of the Irish population.

Provisional data also indicates that 19 people died on the roads in Donegal last year.

Launched at a seminar held at Letterkenny IT, “Donegal — Your Road to Safety” was published to mark the launch of an initiative that will see the RSA and the gardaí visit every county to assist local agencies strengthen road safety.

Donegal is the first county to be visited as part of this campaign and reflects the huge loss of life on the roads there, most notably the horrific crash in July last year that claimed the lives of eight men.

RSA chief executive Noel Brett said: “Donegal has paid a heavy price on its roads, but it doesn’t have to be this way. By working together we can protect our local communities from further tragedy.”

Also speaking at the launch was Toni Kelly, professional rally driver and RSA Road Safety Ambassador, who warned those attending the upcoming Topaz Donegal International Rally not to attempt to replicate what they see on the track.

“What I would say to any rallying enthusiasts is to look to a professional school or track to fulfil that ambition and not risk the lives and the safety of others by taking to public roads with what can be potentially fatal consequences. Simply put, keep the race in its place.”