Safety Campaign Launches Following Increase In Motorcycle Deaths

An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) have launched a campaign to raise aware of an increase in motorcycle deaths.

Five motorcyclists have died in crashes this year, compared to two for the same period last year.

Drivers are being urged to constantly be on the lookout for motorcyclists, in their blind spots, at junctions and especially when turning right. And motorcyclists are asked to be extremely careful when overtaking, negotiating bends and to be particularly mindful of their speed.

Motorcyclists accounted for 12% of road deaths in 2014, despite making up less than 2% of the total vehicle fleet. In both 2013 and 2014, motorcycle fatalities peaked during April/May, June and July, which is said to coincide with a period of good weather in both years.

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Paschal Donohoe appealed to all road users, ahead of the Bank Holiday, to take extra care when using the roads.

"The May bank holiday weekend was a very bad weekend for road safety last year. We lost five lives and six people sustained serious injuries over that four day period," Minister Donohoe said.

"I would appeal to everyone to be mindful of how you use the road, whether you are walking, cycling, riding a motorbike or driving. Ask yourself - what can I do to make this journey a safe one, for others, for my passengers and for myself?

"It could be something as simple as making more of a conscious effort to watch out for motorcyclist in blind spots, putting the mobile out of reach when driving or wearing the high visibility jacket when out walking. If we all make small changes it will make a big difference."

(MH/CD)