An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) have launched a new road safety campaign ‘We’re on the road back. Make it a safer one’, urging road users to be extra cautious as the roads get busier, and to realise that they have changed due to increased numbers of cyclists and pedestrians on Irish roads.

It follows the lifting of COVID-19 travel restrictions which now allow travel within a 20km limit of the home or within the county boundary.

Drivers are being urged to slow down, avoid distractions while driving and to take care when passing pedestrians and cyclists. Pedestrians are reminded to use the footpath and if there is none, to walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing oncoming traffic.

In addition, the RSA and An Garda Síochána are reminding car owners to ensure their vehicle, which may not have been driven for some time, is roadworthy by undertaking some basic maintenance checks in advance of setting off. With many people working from home, they may be out of the habit of driving; drivers are being encouraged to make sure they are comfortable and familiar with their vehicles again before going on any journey.

"I would like to acknowledge that the vast majority of road users have behaved in a responsible manner during COVID-19 restrictions," Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, Roads Policing and Community Engagement, An Garda Síochána, said.

"As we have entered Phase 2 we are seeing more traffic on our roads. As the number of vehicles is increasing, so too are the numbers of people involved in active travelling - walking and cycling. We are appealing to all road users country-wide, to continue to be vigilant while on the roads – be aware of changed road layouts and be mindful of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motor cyclists.

An Garda Síochána will maintain a visible presence on the road network," she added.

"I would ask all road users to remember the basics of road safety, to drive within speed limits, to comply with road signage, don’t drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, make sure to wear your seatbelt while driving and don’t be distracted by electronic devices. Please show consideration for other road users, we all have a responsibility to help each other to stay safe on our roads.”