The most prevalent times of day were between 16.00 – 20.00 33% and 12.00-16.00 23%, followed by 00.00-06.00 22%.
RTC fatalities were more prevalent on Sundays, one in five. The most dangerous time of day on Sundays was midnight-6am.
Pedestrians represent over a quarter of fatalities, while passengers account for almost one fifth.
Arrest figures released by the Gardai for driving under the influence (DUI) up to end of October 2017 shows that there have been 7,428 drivers arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence compared to 6,637 up to October 2016. This is a 12% increase in DUI arrests in 2017.
The Minister for Transport is currently bringing legislation through the Dail that will introduce an automatic disqualification for people who are caught drink driving and has also started work on tackling issues involving speeding offences and fines.
Crash data shows that alcohol could be a factor in almost half of pedestrian deaths. This time of year, will see more people out enjoying the festive party season. Its your family and friends that will be out there enjoying themselves, let them know the dangers and look out for the vulnerable road users.
Assistant Commissioner Michael Finn, Garda National Roads Policing Bureau, An Garda Síochána, said: “An Garda Síochána will be launching its six week Christmas and New year road safety campaign from midnight tomorrow night Friday 1st Dec.
This will include a focus on Mandatory Intoxicant Testing checkpoints around the country to deter people from drinking and driving. The Gardaí will not just be targeting drink drivers at night or in the early hours of the morning during the Christmas period, but also during morning rush hour as many drivers could still be over the legal limit if they have been drinking the night before.
The consequences of drink driving for you and others could be very serious and range from losing your licence to living with the guilt of being responsible for someone’s death or severe injury. Never drink and drive. When in doubt leave it out.
To date this year, 143 people have been killed on Irish roads, an decrease of 26 when compared to the same period last year.
Use your experience and expertise to set a good example over the Christmas & New Year. Don’t buy into the Christmas rush…. Three things you can do to get the best out of this time of year, slow down, slow down, slow down.
