Road users urged to take care over Easter

Road users have been urged to take extra care this weekend as the Easter break, traditionally a busy time on the roads, begins.

Some 21 people have died in 19 crashes and 538 people were injured over Easter between 2001 and 2005, the National Safety Council said.

"A total of 21 people never made it home over the same period in the last five years following collisions on Irish Roads. Tragically, someone you know - a family member, neighbour, friend or work colleague - may not make it home safely this coming Easter bank holiday," said NSC acting chief executive Noel Brett.

"To avoid a repeat of this needless loss of life I would urge all road users to take great care and show consideration for others when using the roads this Easter."

"We see the car as an extension of our home, a safe environment for our families. But using the roads is the most dangerous thing we do every day. We forget this and underestimate the risks we face on the roads. These risks are greatly increased over bank holiday periods. It's a time when the roads are busier than normal, with people taking short breaks and vulnerable road users such as walkers, cyclists and bikers take to the roads in greater numbers.

"If we are aware of these added dangers while enjoying the break we will all get home safely," Mr Brett said.

The NSC said motorists should always drive at an appropriate speed for the conditions and circumstances and should never drive while impaired by alcohol, drugs or tiredness.

They should also wear seatbelts and ensure all passengers, front and rear, wear theirs too.

Pedestrians were also urged to avoid excessive alcohol consumption and to walk on the right-hand side of the road facing traffic if there are no footpaths. They should wear reflective clothing or armbands or carry a torch so that they can be clearly seen, the NSC said.

Meanwhile, the Labour Party's education spokeswoman Jan O'Sullivan said there was a strong case to be made for teaching safe driving to secondary school students.

"We see where the number of people in their late teens and early 20 involved in road traffic accidents remains at an unacceptably high level. It seems that many younger drivers are driving on provisional licences without getting any meaningful instruction in how to drive safely."

"Recent research carried out by the Irish Drivers Education Association suggests that such a proposal would have the support of the parents of these youngsters. Most schools are in favour in principle of such proposals.

"I would urge the Minister to undertake a feasibility study on this issue. It seems to me that any measures that could potentially reduce road carnage and increase road safety should be closely examined."