Slow down. It’s a long-standing message but one that is always worth repeating, which is why AA Ireland are pleased to support National Slow Down Day, a road safety initiative led by An Garda Síochána.
Slow Down Day For Drivers
Running from 7am on Thursday 21st to 7am on Friday 22nd October, the campaign urges drivers to ‘Slow Down’, with the aim to reduce the number of speed-related collisions, save lives and reduce injuries on our roads. Gardaí will get the message out with high-visibility in 1322 speed enforcement zones and through various media channels.
1. No Room for Complacency
There is no room for complacency. So far this year, 113 people have been killed on Irish roads. According to the Gardaí, 4 out of 5 (78%) of fatalities to date this year have occurred on rural roads. These are roads with a speed limit of 80km/h or above. Therefore, it is important that motorists do their part when it comes to further reducing fatal collisions on our roads. The AA is encouraging drivers to be mindful of their speed and be aware of the needs of vulnerable road users.
5 people have been killed and 59 people seriously injured in October Bank Holiday collisions between 2016 and 2020. Superintendent Thomas Murphy, Garda National Roads Policing Bureau said that as a general rule a 1% reduction in average speed will bring about a 4% reduction in fatal collisions. This is why reducing motorists’ speed is essential to improving road safety.
2. Vulnerable Road-Users
The campaign highlights how vulnerable road-users are often more at risk. The clocks will be going back this weekend and so the days will be getting even shorter. Therefore it’s vital to protect those out walking, jogging or cycling who can be difficult to see in poor lighting or in darkness. Reducing your speed can play a crucial role in keeping all road users safe.
Previously compiled data shows that a pedestrian or cyclist hit by a vehicle travelling at 60kmph has a 10% chance of surviving; if they’re hit at 30kmph, they have a 90% chance at survival. Slowing down not only prevents against fatalities and life-altering injuries, but also allows the driver more time to react to a hazard. Read more about sharing the road with vulnerable road users here.
Improve your driving by brushing up on stopping distances, safe parking or how to correctly use your car lights.
