02 June 2011
An Feidir Linn? - Not one road death; not one serious injury this June Bank Holiday Weekend
As the summer has finally arrived and we head in to the June Bank Holiday weekend the RSA is asking each and every road user to take personal responsibility for the way they use and share the road this weekend. There is every opportunity to prevent the loss of life and to avoid life shattering injuries this weekend. Drivers need to be aware that with the arrival of summer weather there will be increased numbers of pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists using the roads over the long weekend. As drivers we must always expect the unexpected and be conscious that we are sharing the road with vulnerable road users.
We also appeal to all pedestrians to take personal responsibility for how they use the road. Always wear a his vis vest when out walking, use footpaths where provided, only cross the road when it is safe and appropriate and if out socialising plan how you will get home. Drunken pedestrians are an real risk on our roads. Never walk on a motorway or dual carriageway.
Mr. Noel Brett, CEO, RSA had this message for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists; “With good weather forecasted this June bank holiday weekend, and the beginning of summer upon us, when you are walking, running, cycling or biking make sure you can be seen. To all drivers we ask for courtesy and vigilance towards cyclists, pedestrians and motorcyclists.”
“Ireland has made huge improvements in road safety. There has been a reduction of 12 fatalities from this day last year. I commend all the road users for the changes in behavior that have saved so many lives this year. It is how you use and share the road that saves lives. The challenge for this June Bank Holiday weekend is to ensure that not one life is lost and that not one serious injury occurs on the roads.” he added.
So far this year 39 drivers, 12 passengers, 18 pedestrians, 7 motorcyclists and 1 pedal cyclists have died. These deaths are preventable and need not happen. Mr. Brett encouraged cyclists to make sure their bikes are fitted with front and rear lights, and also to wear a high visibility vest or armband. Always cycle in keeping with the rules of the road.
Mr. Brett added, “Making a few simple changes to your walking or cycling habits can make sure you’re seen and keeps you safe.”
Motorcyclists must always wear a full set of personal protective clothing and a properly fitting helmet. Always drive to the road conditions and to your competency. Don’t fall victim to peer pressure to keep up with the pack or to exceed your comfort zone. Don’t be tempted to discard your protective clothing.
Brett concluded “Think for one moment of next Tuesday morning. Will your memories of June holiday weekend 2011 be joyful and happy or full of regret and remorse! Remember there are no road accidents. There are crashes, each one has a cause and all are preventable. Take responsibility for how you drive or use the road this weekend. Do the right thing and make sure that on Tuesday morning that you have no regrets, remorse, shame or guilt about how you drove this weekend.
With your support and personal effort we absolutely can ensure that no one dies or is injured on our roads this weekend.
You can, I can.
Is Feidir Linn!
RSA’s Pedestrians and Cyclists Safety section
ENDS
For further information, please contact: RSA Communications Office: 096 25008
Editors Note
The number of people killed and seriously injured on the June bank holiday 2000 - 2010
| YEAR |
KILLED |
SERIOUSLY INJURED |
KSI |
| 2000 |
9 |
19 |
28 |
| 2001 |
1 |
15 |
16 |
| 2002 |
5 |
8 |
13 |
| 2003 |
3 |
11 |
14 |
| 2004 |
5 |
12 |
17 |
| 2005 |
3 |
5 |
8 |
| 2006 |
7 |
10 |
17 |
| 2007 |
4 |
15 |
19 |
| 2008 |
9 |
9 |
18 |
| 2009 |
5 |
6 |
11 |
| 2010(Prov) |
2 |
6 |
8 |
| Total |
53 |
116 |
169 |
The RSA has the following safety tips for motorcyclists:
- Wear proper motorcycle gear, even when the weather is warm. Remember, it’s easier to have a shower than a skin graft!
- Buy your helmet from a reputable dealer, make sure it fits properly and ensure it meets EU standards.
- Try several sizes and makes before purchasing and make sure the dealer knows how to assess the proper fit.
- Never buy or use a second-hand helmet. If your helmet is damaged, replace it.
- An unsecured helmet is not only useless in a crash but illegal. Helmets must be worn at all times and must be securely fastened.
- Did you know that oil on a wet road is almost impossible to spot through a dark visor?
- Get a good jacket that provides proper back protection and also protects the joints.
- Use a reflective jacket which will make you more visible on the road
- Always wear protective gloves and footwear that at least come over the ankles.
Walkers and cyclists need to remember a number of simple tips to keep them safe on Irish roads over this June bank holiday weekend:
- Stop, look and listen
- Always wear reflective clothing such as a high visibility vest, armband or belt so that vehicles can easily spot you
- Never cross at a bend, vehicles will not see you
- If there is no footpath, walk/run/jog on the right hand side of the road, facing oncoming traffic
- Walk in a single file on narrow roads and when there is heavy traffic; otherwise walk no more than two abreast.
- Do not cycle without proper lighting (white light in front and red light for rear)
- ALWAYS wear a helmet