In Ireland this year a total of 203 people have been killed on the roads, 43 fewer than by the same time last year. However there has been no reduction in the number of road deaths in Mayo which stands at eight — the same for this time in 2008. In total last year there were 10 people killed on Mayo roads, so the statistics would dictate two more people could yet die in this county this year. Armed with this knowledge let’s prevent this from happening. While figures and statistics give us a broad view of what’s happening, they don’t delve into the human pain and suffering experienced as a result of these deaths.
For every person that is killed it is believed that there are 100 grieving their loss. That’s 800 distraught and grieving people in Mayo as Christmas approaches. And that’s this year alone.
Christmas is such a happy time for so many. A time of giving and receiving, reminiscing and looking to the future. But for those who have lost a loved one, Christmas will be a different experience altogether. Emotions are heightened during the festive season when we remember good times and bad.
This Sunday is World Day of Remembrance for road crash victims and thousands are expected to attend a special ceremony at Knock Shrine at midday. This is just one such service being held around the world for the families and friends of the deceased.
It’s good to remember. To join together with people who can understand the depth of your grief and level of pain. While the world doesn’t stop, the light has been taken from your family. You’ve been denied those memories which you were looking forward to creating. Nothing can ever fill that void.
Speed, drink driving, not wearing your seat belt, driving while talking on your mobile, and driver fatigue are the biggest contributing factors to road deaths.
And all are avoidable. That’s what makes the loss of life on our roads so senseless. A lot has been done and continues to be done to educate all of us on the dangers we face and the steps we can take to improve the safety of Irish roads. It’s up to us to implement that knowledge. The finger can only be pointed at that person who flouts the law and disregards all the advice. The devastation this kind of behaviour leaves behind is unquantifiable.
The advice is not hard to follow: During the day switch on your dipped headlights. Remember it’s not about what you can see, but more about being seen. Turn off your fog lights when the fog has lifted. Pedestrians, be seen — wear reflective gear. Light up your bicycle if you are cycling at night or at dusk or dawn. Slow down. Never, ever drink and drive. No rocket science there.
The third Sunday in November of every year is now recognised as the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. Let’s not forget.
Toni Bourke Editor [email protected]
