FATAL ROAD CRASHES INCREASE IN THE WEST

Date Published: 16-Jan-2013

Motorists in Galway are being urged to be alert and vigilant on the roads as latest statistics show there were 18 road deaths in the county last year.

Gardai say road deaths and crashes resulting in serious injury across the Connaught region have increased contrary to the national trend. 

According to Garda figures there were 18 road deaths in Galway last year and serious injury collisions left 31 people with life changing injuries.

Gardai say the majority of fatal collisions, more than a third, happen on Sundays.

The peak hours for fatal collisions seems to be between 8am and 8p.m.

This time last year, ten people died on roads in the West in single vehicle collisions.

Gardai are now urging motorists never to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, always wear a seatbelt and drive at a safe speed.

Some seasonal factors also need to be taken into account, such as early morning frost of fog.

Pedestrians and cyclists in Galway are also urged to be vigilant and always wear high visibility clothing.