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AN Garda Síochána will conduct a national speed enforcement operation “Slow Down”, supported by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) for a 24 hour period from 7am on Friday to 7am this Saturday.
The operation will consist of high visibility speed enforcement in 1,322 speed enforcement zones. They will also deliver the message through various media channels to remind people of the potential impact on families and communities of speeding.
Government departments, local authorities, public and private sector fleet operators are invited to participate in the initiative by circulating employees with the key message to “Slow Down” and, whether driving for business or private purposes, to always drive within the speed limit and at a speed appropriate to the prevailing conditions.
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The aim of “Slow Down day” is to remind drivers of the dangers of speeding, to increase compliance with speed limits and act as a deterrent to driving at excessive or inappropriate speed.
The overall objective is to reduce the number of speed related collisions, save lives and reduce injuries on our roads.
Chief Superintendent Paul Cleary, Roads Policing Bureau said: “Despite the reductions in traffic associated with COVID-19 we have continued to see a small percentage of motorists who travel at excessively high speeds both in urban and rural areas. In these times with more vulnerable persons on our roads, pedestrians and cyclists, we appeal to motorists to be aware of the posted speed limits and also while travelling to be conscious of the presence of other road users. We are appealing for all motorists to drive safely and please don’t be one of those detected speeding on Slow Down day”.
As of May 20, 2020 there have been 56 fatalities, an increase of 5 deaths on this day last year. Pedestrians account for 30% of all fatalities.
