New figures show that 55 deaths were recorded on roads in Northern Ireland in 2022, with December seeing the highest number of fatalities.
The statistics from the Department for Infrastructure and PSNI revealed this was five more road deaths than last year.
This year, 16 of the 55 people who died were pedestrians, compared to eight last year. In December, nine people died on roads in Northern Ireland.
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There were three child (under 16) fatalities recorded in 2022, the same as both 2021 and 2020.
There have been 740 people seriously injured on our roads from January 1 to October 31, 2022. This compares to 627 people for the same period in 2021, an increase of 113 people. A final total for 2022 will not be confirmed by PSNI until spring 2023.
Julie Harrison, Permanent Secretary for the Department for Infrastructure said: “It is important to remember that behind the figures, there are families and friends who are grieving and whose lives have been devastated.
"First and foremost, my thoughts are with those who are mourning a loved one; and with those whose lives have been changed by injury as a result of a road traffic collision.
“A split second on the road can have devastating consequences. We know that most road deaths and serious injuries are due to human error so by being vigilant at all times of other road users – people who walk, wheel, cycle, motorcycle, drive, ride a horse as well as passengers in vehicles – we can all make a difference.
“As we begin 2023, I ask all of us who share the road to respect fellow road users and follow these four basic rules: slow down, pay attention, never drive having taken alcohol or drugs and always wear your seatbelt, however short your journey.”
Almost all road traffic collisions are caused by people, mostly drivers, behaving carelessly/inattentively, dangerously or simply ignoring the law. The main causes of collisions continue to be driver carelessness/inattention, speeding, drink/drug driving.
Failure to wear a seatbelt in the event of a collision increases the likelihood of death or life changing injury.
Assistant Chief Constable Chris Todd said: “Across Northern Ireland, far too many families are starting the New Year coping with the aftermath of a serious collision. From family members who have been killed or seriously injured, to those recovering or learning to live with life changing injuries.
“There are also far too many people now living with their own responsibility for the death or serious harm caused to another. That of course can lead to prosecution and potentially imprisonment.
“Police remain committed to working with communities and partners to make our roads safer for everyone, however the stark reality is that many collisions can be avoided.
“We all share the roads, so we all share the responsibility for road safety.
“Slow down. Pay greater attention to your surroundings. Always wear your seat belt and never drive after drinking or taking drugs.”
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