Every day, drivers die in road traffic accidents.
Many die as a consequence of inexperience, speeding, intoxication through drink or drugs or just plain recklessness.
Being a good driver is not just about the ability to control a car and having good reflexes but about attitude and being able to spot and understand dangers on the road.
Whenever and wherever you drive:
Car crashes are the number one killers of YOUNG MEN in Ireland. 17 to 24 year old males account for just over 1 in 5 driver deaths (22%) yet this age group represent just 6% of the population. For every KM driven, a 17 year-old male is eight times more likely to be involved in a crash as a middle aged man. Females 17-24 are massively at risk as the victims of male speeding, frequently killed or maimed as passengers. There are many reasons for this. However, inexperience and risk taking behaviour are among the biggest causes of crashes in this age group.
Speeding. What a sensation!!It may seem like fun but it is downright dangerous. The faster you travel the more likely it is that you will be involved in a car crash, and the faster you go, the harder you hit. The effects of speeding and being involved in a car crash can change your life forever.Everyone. We all are responsible for driving, walking, and biking safely on our Nation's roads. The engineers and planners have the responsibility to make sure that roads are designed and operating properly -- with safety for all road users in mind. Drivers and pedestrians have the responsibility to always be alert and obey the traffic rules. Passengers should always buckle up and act responsibly. The Gardai and the courts have the responsibility to make sure that the traffic and pedestrian laws are enforced. Public safety agencies have the responsibility of responding to and securing crash locations and enforcing traffic laws. Local communities and county and state governments need to allocate funding for safe roads and increase public awareness about road safety. Everyone should take responsibility for roadway safety.
We all can make a difference.
Knowing your route and being well informed about wether and road conditions as well as unusual traffic activity ahead: roadway crashes, road closures,work areas , or heavier than usual congestion helps drivers to head off traffic nightmares before they develope.
Usefull links when planning your route:
For more information, contact:
Road Safety Officer
Mayo County Council
Aras an Chontae
The Mall
Castlebar
Co. Mayo
Phone: 094 9047115
Email:roadsafety@mayococo.ie
9am to 5pm