Rise in road deaths

The sharp increase in fatalities on Ireland’s roads is a worrying development.

Following last year’s record success in reducing fatalities, the sudden surge in road deaths highlights the danger of becoming complacent about an issue which has a devastating impact on families up and down the country.

Compared with the same period last year, 11 more people have died on the roads in the past two months, bringing the total so far this year to 34. According to the Road Safety Authority, there is no clear reason why more people have been killed.

The startling increase in the number of fatalities is a timely reminder for everyone going out on the roads, whether in a car, on a bicycle, walking or jogging, to be aware at all times of the importance of keeping themselves and others safe.