Issue Date: 06/11/2024
An Garda Síochána will conduct a 24-hour national speed enforcement operation; "Slow Down Day” supported by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and other stakeholders from 7am tomorrow morning Thursday, 7th of November 2024.
An Garda Síochána conducts a number of National Slow Down Days each year with the aim of reminding drivers of the dangers of speeding, to increase the overall compliance with speed limits in place nationwide, and to deter those that are intent on driving at excessive or inappropriate speed.
As the seasonal weather sets in and we look to shorter, darker evenings ahead, driving conditions will become more challenging. It is important to remember that no matter how good the road and weather conditions are, any increase in speed will significantly increase the likelihood of being involved in a serious or fatal road traffic collision. While the number of fatal road traffic collisions that have occurred so far this year are currently down on 2023, it is paramount that road users continue to support An Garda Síochána to maintain this trend.
Speeding not only puts you at risk but also endangers the lives of others around you. Every time you speed there is an increase in the likelihood of losing control of your vehicle, which could lead to a serious or fatal accident. The consequences of speeding can be devastating, not only for yourself but for all others using the road.
Background: National Slow Down Day encourages a conversation on speed and road safety. Conversations on road safety should not only take place in the aftermath of fatal road traffic collisions - this is too late, these conversations should take place every day. Speeding while driving is one of the most dangerous driving practices there is. The faster the speed > the more severe the impact > the deadlier the consequences. Inappropriate speed (for prevailing weather / traffic / road conditions) is just as much a problem as exceeding the speed limit:
• 1 in 10 pedestrians will die if hit by a car travelling at 30km/h
• 5 in 10 pedestrians will die if hit by a car travelling at 50km/h
• 9 in 10 will die if hit by a car travelling at 60km/h.
An Garda Síochána remains committed to improving road safety on our roads, however our work alone cannot prevent all fatal or serious road traffic collisions from occurring. We need your support. An Garda Síochána continues to work with relevant partners as per the Government’s Road Safety Strategy 2021 - 2030. A strategic, coordinated and multi-sectoral approach to road safety is critical to keeping Ireland’s roads safe. This involves approximately 180 measures for delivery by all partners to the Strategy across areas such as education, technology, information sharing, legislation, roads infrastructure and enforcement.
