An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) are appealing to all road users to take action and use the roads with care over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
The appeal comes as the RSA publish their 2025 half yearly report which analyses fatalities from 1 January – 27 July. This report based on 91 fatalities which occurred on public roads over this time period, shows that the number of those killed aged 46-65 is now the highest in six years.
In contrast, there has been a year-on-year reduction in the number of young people (25 years old or less) being fatally injured in collisions. A quarter of the 95 people that have lost their lives this year were in this age range – 14 fewer fatalities than this time last year.
35 drivers, 22 pedestrians, 17 were motorcyclists, eight cyclists, eight passengers and one e-scooter rider have been killed. This shows an increase among vulnerable road users i.e. cyclists, pedestrians and motorcyclists.
Additional findings:
27% of fatalities occurred between 12pm and 4pm
26% of all fatalities occurred between 8pm and 4am when traffic volumes tend to be lower
Friday through Monday saw the greatest number of fatalities
Over half (56%) of all fatalities occurred on 80km/h and 100kmh roads.
Speaking at this morning’s road safety briefing on the N17, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Séan Canney, said, “As we head into a Bank Holiday weekend, when many of us may be looking forward to travelling and spending time with loved ones, I urge everyone to be mindful of their own safety and that of others. Simple measures like putting your phone away, slowing down, and paying attention to the road, could make the difference that prevents a tragedy.”
Chief Superintendent Ray McMahon said, “This is one of the busiest weekends on the roads. Not just for motorists, but at this time of year, it’s one of the busiest weekends for cyclists and pedestrians. We ask everybody to be very conscious of our vulnerable road users, our cyclists and our pedestrians.
“We’re asking people to slow down, we’re asking people to just plan their journey ahead. Some will have long journeys this weekend, so take your time and take your breaks. Don’t be using mobile phones or anything that might distract you while driving. We really do not want to be visiting another family with terrible news this weekend.
“We’re going to be out in force from today straight through to next Wednesday, with extra checkpoints and considerable more enforcement in relation to speeding, mobile phone use, and seatbelts. So please drive carefully and drive responsibly.”
Sarah O’Connor, Director of Partnerships and External Affairs said, “We’re here today in Mayo to launch our August Bank Holiday road safety campaign — a county that, heartbreakingly, is among the hardest hit by road deaths so far this year. Each life lost on our roads is someone’s son, daughter, friend, or neighbour — and here in Mayo, those losses are deeply felt.
“Our mid-year report launched today, shows that while there’s been a welcome fall in overall fatalities, we’re seeing more motorcyclists, cyclists, and passengers being killed. That tells us we all need to stay switched on.
“So, wherever you’re going this weekend — whether it’s a match, a festival or just a catch-up with family and friends — take a moment before you get behind the wheel. Slow down. Belt up. Put the phone out of reach and never drive while under the influence. Let’s protect each other — so that no more families have to endure the pain of an empty seat at the table.”
