Inishowen checkpoints to cut road deaths 01.06.07

A Bank Holiday crackdown on drivers flouting the road safety laws will begin this afternoon in Inishowen. Sgt. Grace Hennessy of Buncrana Garda Station said checkpoints would be visible throughout the peninsula this weekend as officers attempt to save lives through the detection of speeding, drink driving, dangerous driving, the non-wearing of seatbelts and unsafe pedestrian activity.

Seven people died on Irish roads nationally over the June Bank Holiday last year and Gardai want to prevent such a death toll occurring in 2007. Local Gardai have warned people to never drink and drive and to nominate a non-drinking driver or use public transport, taxis/hackneys if going out for a drink. As thousands take to the road for the weekend
holiday, they also warn that tiredness can contribute to traffic accidents. "Tiredness also contributes to road fatalities and injuries and so drivers should plan all journeys and stop in a safe place if they feel at all tired and take a short nap or break away from the road," said a spokesperson. "Pedestrians should take whatever steps they can to ensure their safety on the roads. In particular they should walk facing on-coming traffic and use footpaths, pedestrian and designated crossings, where available. "They should wear bright clothing and reflective bands while motorists are also urged to be more conscious of pedestrians walking on and crossing roads."
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