The Road Safety Authority is urging all motorists to take extra care over the May Bank Holiday weekend. 

RSA Communications Manager Brian Farrell is appealing to all motorists to slow down. 

“The faster you go, the greater the likelihood of being in a collision,” he said. "The greater the severity of outcome as well, the greater the likelihood that you will suffer severe injuries or potentially worse.” 

“All roads are going to be busy that there is a higher risk of being involved in a collision around this time.” 

Mr Farrell encouraged people “to have fun, relax, enjoy your weekend but please don't forget about your safety when using the road”. 

The RSA urged people to follow the regular road safety advice - slow down, wear your seatbelt and never drink and drive. 

Road deaths

Road deaths have increased by 8% so far this year. 56 have been killed in road accidents so far this year, compared to 52 this same time last year and 47 the previous year.  

Last year, a total of 156 people died on Irish roads, the largest death toll in a year since 2016. 

Over the last five years, seven people have died and 83 have been seriously injured in car accidents over the May Bank Holiday, according to the RSA. 

Some 154 people were arrested for driving under the influence over the 2022 May Bank Holiday Weekend, according to the RSA.  

13% of these arrests made between the hours of 6am to 2pm. 

Director of Partnership and External Affairs Sarah O’Connor said there was no fatalities over the St. Patrick’s Day Weekend – and “together we can do this again this weekend”.