15 September 2010

RSA reminds Parents and Students to be 'Streetwise' tonight

As 57,000 students prepare to receive their Junior Cert results tomorrow, Wednesday 15th September, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is reminding parents and guardians to talk to their sons and daughters about celebrating safely. This advice comes as RSA research reveals that young adults between the age of 14 and 16 are 3 times more likely to be killed or seriously injured in a collision than those under 14 years.

Mr Brett reminded parents to talk to their son or daughter before they go out for the night, and make sure they know where they are going, who they are going with and how they intend to get home.

“As a parent, the worst news you could hear is that something has happened to your child,” said Mr Brett. “And unfortunately, the reality is that young people aged 14 and 16 are at 3 times higher risk of being involved in a collision. So we would ask all parents and guardians to make sure you talk to your son and daughter about being safe on the roads tonight. Peer pressure is something that all young people experience, so it’s important to let them know that they should never do something that makes them feel unsafe, like getting into a car with an unlicensed driver, travelling in an overcrowded vehicle or with someone who drives dangerously.”

“Make sure that you know where they are going tonight, who they will be with and how they plan to get home. As parents, it is our responsibility to make sure our children are safe at all times.”

With a message for students, Mr Brett said: ‘Congratulations to each and every one of the 57,000 students who will receive their Junior Cert results today. You have worked hard and now is a time to celebrate your achievements. All we would ask of you tonight is to stay safe on the roads and celebrate responsibly. If you are walking or cycling, make sure you wear high visibility clothing and your bike has working lights. Be careful when accepting a lift from other people and if at any time you feel unsafe because the driver is driving dangerously, tell them immediately.”

The RSA is also advising teachers to support parents in their message to teenagers by using a part of today’s lessons to remind them of the dangers of unsafe behaviour on the roads.

“The RSA’s resources for schools, such as ‘Streetwise’, provide practical information on how to stay safe on the roads at all times. Tonight is no different, so remind students to put into practice the lessons they have learned in the classroom,” said Mr Brett.

ENDS

For further information:

RSA Communications Office: 096 25008