SPEED is the single biggest factor contributing to road deaths in Ireland. Over 40% of fatal collisions are caused by excessive or inappropriate speed.
A 5km/h difference in speed could be the difference between life and death for a vulnerable road user like a pedestrian.
Hit by a car at 60km/h, 9 out of 10 pedestrians will be killed
Hit by a car at 50km/h, 5 out of 10 pedestrians will be killed
Hit by a car at 30km/h, 1 out of 10 pedestrians will be killed
Speed has been identified as a key risk factor in road traffic injuries, influencing both the risk of a road crash as well as the severity of the injuries that result from crashes.
Excess speed is defined as exceeding the speed limit.
Inappropriate speed is defined as driving at a speed unsuitable for the prevailing road and traffic conditions.
Excess and inappropriate speed are responsible for a high proportion of the mortality and morbidity that result from road crashes.
Controlling vehicle speed can prevent crashes happening and can reduce the impact when they do occur,lessening the severity of the of injuries sustained by the victims.