Currently, there have been 128 fatalities on Irish roads this year. Although it may seem like only a number, there are immeasurable heartbreaks associated with it.
It is widely accepted that speeding is dangerous, making it almost impossible to argue against reducing speed limits uniformly. Understanding this, the government’s efforts to modify these limits are generally appreciated. Junior transport minister Jack Chambers is currently reviewing the speed limits with the aim of significantly reducing speeding on Irish roads.
The proposed plan includes capping the speed on national secondary roads at 80km/h, compared to the current 100km/h limit. Local and rural roads would have their limits lowered from 80km/h to 60km/h, while towns, cities, and residential areas would have a limit of 30km/h. Roads on the outskirts of urban areas may be limited to 50km/h.
Mr. Chambers rightly highlights the need for consistent speed limits throughout the country. There are many areas where the limits are excessively high and others where they are surprisingly low.
Irish authorities considering nationwide reduction of speed limits to reduce road fatalities
It is not uncommon to find narrow lanes with speed limits of 80km/h, while certain sections of dual carriageways have lower limits. This topic has been debated extensively, but there has been little action taken.
Looking at the less appealing aspect of human nature, we must acknowledge that once the initial shock of recent road deaths fades, convincing people to maintain reduced speeds in the long term may prove challenging.
Selfishness and an overestimation of driving skills often lead individuals to believe they can continue driving recklessly.
If evidence of this reality is needed, we need only recall that on National Slow Down Day, a total of 865 drivers were caught speeding. This occurred shortly after the heartrending funerals of recent road accident victims.
Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that changes to speed limits are both realistic and capable of maintaining public support, avoiding any negative perception of the system. Adequate enforcement will also play a pivotal role.
For proper road policing, the Gardaí must have resources comparable to those in other countries. Additionally, the authorities must be mindful of the public perception that certain speed checks are merely a “numbers game” aimed at generating revenue and providing an excuse for claiming action has been taken.
However, the bottom line is simple: we all need to reduce our speed for the sake of safety.
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