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14th Aug 2015

There’s been a drop in fatal road accidents this year but the number is still too high

One life lost is too many for us

Alan Loughnane

teenager dead debs Galway

One life lost is too many for us…

92 people died on our roads this year from January to July, almost a 20 per cent drop on the same period last year.

The figures were published as part of a seven month review of the roads by the Road Safety Authority and An Garda Síochána.

While it’s encouraging to see the figure dropping from this time last year, they’ve warned that 100 more people could die before the end of the year unless we remain vigilant on the roads.

There were 21 fewer deaths on our roads this year compared to last year and around 17 fewer collisions.

Up to July 31, 41 drivers, 16 passengers, 18 pedestrians, 12 motorcyclists and five cyclists have been killed while nine more have lost their lives in August so far.

 Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe said that while any reduction in fatalities was welcomed, “we cannot and must not become complacent”.

“If I could ask just one thing of everyone, it is that every time you use the roads, you treat other road-users with respect and consideration. By sharing the road safely together, we can all play a role in saving lives,” he said.

 Hat-tip to the Irish Examiner.