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Road Safety

Drivers & Riders

Driving is a great skill to have. It grants us the freedom to go where we want when we want, and it is a particularly vital asset when living in rural Ireland. However, significant risks are associated with driving, especially in rural parts of the country. In 2020 there were 149 fatalities on Irish roads.

This means that it is imperative that we are respectful of other road users in order to reduce the risk of accidents. As a driver it is wise to be cautious: make sure to abide by the speed limit, never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and avoid driving when tired or fatigued.

It is the responsibility of the driver to ensure that their vehicle is taxed and insured as well as being fully serviced and operational. For more information on how to be a safe and responsible driver, see our ‘Causes of Collisions and How to Avoid Them’ section. For information on motor tax, please visit the Motor Tax section.


10 Tips for Driving and Walking Safely

Top 10 tips for ensuring your safety behind the wheel and out walking


    1. It's your responsibility to drive and walk safely so always be alert and attentive to the motorists and pedestrians around you. 
    2. Never drink and drive. And don't let friends drive drunk. 
    3. Always buckle up. The life you save could be your own. 
    4. Obey traffic signals and signs. They are there to keep you and others safe. 
    5. Make sure you have plenty of time to get to your destination so you don't feel pressured to speed or disobey traffic signals. 
    6. Don't give into road rage. Your life and the lives of your passengers are more important than angrily reacting to an irresponsible driver. 
    7. Pedestrians should always wear light-coloured or reflective clothing at night to be more visible to drivers. 
    8. Before you take a right turn at a junction, make sure it is safe to do so. (More than one-third of all deaths to vehicle occupants occur in side-impact crashes. Most of these occur at junctions.) 
    9. Obey the speed limits and make sure you drive carefully through junctions and work zones. 
    10. Don't drive when you are drowsy. If you are drowsy, pull over at a rest area and take a nap before proceeding. 


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