The Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána have launched a new road safety campaign calling on road users to be extra cautious and alert to others on the road.

The appeal comes as traffic volumes increase following the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions allowing intercounty travel to resume.

“The Road Back” campaign is reminding road users that the easing of travel restrictions will mean more cars are back on the road and with numbers of pedestrians and cyclists having increased significantly over the last year, the need to always be on the lookout for other road users is essential.

“We have all worked so hard to get this public health crisis under control and can now look forward to getting back on the road and enjoying intercounty travel once again,” said Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Ms. Hildegarde Naughton.

“But we need to continue to put safety first. Road safety is also a major public health issue, and we are asking for the same commitment from all road users to saving lives on our roads.”

Drivers are being asked to slow down, avoid distractions while driving and to be alert to pedestrians and cyclists, taking care when passing.

Many motorists will be driving their vehicle after a prolonged absence from the roads due to travel restrictions. The RSA is asking motorists to think safety first, re-familiarise themselves with their vehicle before setting off and ensure they are comfortable behind the wheel.

To date in 2021, a total of 45 people have died on Irish roads, eight less than the same period in 2020.