Appeal For Caution As Road Safety Week Commences

As today marks the beginning of Road Safety Week, 19-25 November, the public are being reminded of their personal responsibility to travel in a way that keeps both themselves and others safe.

Emergency service representatives have said that those travelling on bikes and motorcycles continue to be over-represented with regards to casualties.

Permanent Secretary for the Department of Infrastructure, Katrina Godfrey warned: "A bike is much harder to see than a car - so extra effort and a greater level of awareness are essential where bikes are concerned.

"When you are driving take a conscious look for riders when turning right, when emerging from junctions and when overtaking.

"This year’s message is focusing on looking out for those on bicycles or motorcycles; and those people travelling on bicycles or motorbikes taking steps to increase their own safety through safe riding behaviours and appropriate training and equipment."

PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd attributed the main causes of serious road accidents in Northern Ireland to a lack of attention, excessive speed or driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

He said in a statement: "Our advice is clear. Drivers and riders need to slow down, pay greater attention to their surroundings, NEVER ever drive or ride a motorbike after drinking or taking drugs and whether you are a driver or passenger, always wear a seatbelt. 

"Pedestrians and cyclists also need to be aware of their surroundings and particularly at this time of year, make every effort to been seen by wearing reflective or hi-vis clothing."

Highlighting the often catastrophic consequences of dangerous driving, Alan Walmsley, Assistant Chief Fire & Rescue Officer, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service said that Fire Fighters have dealt with over 670 road traffic collisions and rescued over 450 people trapped in their vehicles so far this year.

"Sadly they witness first-hand the carnage on our roads and the lives completely destroyed as a consequence of irresponsible road user behaviour. 

"The reality for members of the emergency services responding to road traffic collisions is that those on two wheels are one of the most vulnerable road user groups and tragically, if involved in a road traffic collision, are more susceptible to death and injury," Mr Walmsley added.

"We all have a responsibility to do all we can to ease the pain, loss and suffering to individuals, families and communities caused by road traffic collisions."

Brian McNeill, Director of Operations with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service appealed for more consideration for cyclists and those who travel on motorbikes.

"They are an extremely vulnerable category of road user and as the nights get darker I would appeal for them to make sure that, before they take to the road, they can be seen with appropriate clothing and lighting.

"I would also appeal to other road users to think twice about the possibility of bikes or motor bikes being in the space you are about to take. When you are aware of them being there please give them more space and time to ensure the safety of everyone on our roads."



(JG)