A new survey has revealed that pedestrians in Ireland are not doing enough to be visible on the roads, particularly at night. The poll, conducted by insurer Aviva, found that only 29% of pedestrians wear a high-visibility vest “at all times when visibility could be poor.” This figure is particularly concerning given the high number of pedestrian fatalities in the country.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Safety Concerns
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) reported that pedestrians accounted for one in five of all road fatalities and serious injuries between 2019 and 2023. In 2024, this trend continued with 33 pedestrians killed and 285 injured in incidents on Irish roads annually. The RSA highlights that children under 15 represent the largest proportion of injured pedestrians. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for increased road safety measures and awareness.
Young Adults and Dublin Residents Are Most Likely to Not Wear Hi-Vis
The Aviva survey uncovered significant differences in hi-vis vest usage based on demographics. A staggering 34% of young adults (aged 18-24) and 33% of Dublin residents said they never or rarely wear high-vis vests when walking at night or in poor weather conditions. These figures suggest a lack of awareness or a disregard for safety among these specific groups. It's critical to address this disparity and ensure that all pedestrians understand the importance of being visible on the road.
Why Wear High-Vis?
Wearing high-visibility vests is a simple yet effective measure that can greatly improve pedestrian safety. It enhances visibility, particularly in low-light conditions, making it easier for drivers to see pedestrians and avoid accidents. This becomes particularly important during the darker winter months.
Drivers Also Contribute to Pedestrian Fatalities
The Aviva survey also highlighted the role of drivers in pedestrian fatalities. Almost half of those surveyed blamed drivers, citing factors like distracted driving due to mobile phones and technology (20%), careless driving (14%), and speeding (13%). This indicates that a multifaceted approach to improving road safety is essential. Both pedestrians and drivers need to be responsible and take steps to ensure their safety on the roads.
The Importance of Road Safety Awareness
The survey results underscore the need for a stronger emphasis on road safety awareness among all road users. This includes educating pedestrians about the importance of wearing high-visibility vests and reminding drivers about the dangers of distracted driving and speeding. It's crucial to change the mindset and behaviors of both pedestrians and drivers to create a safer environment for everyone on the roads.
The Solution: A Collective Effort
Improving pedestrian safety requires a collaborative effort. Pedestrians should prioritize their visibility by wearing high-visibility clothing, particularly at night or in poor weather conditions. Drivers must remain vigilant, avoid distractions, and adhere to speed limits. The RSA and other road safety organizations play a critical role in educating the public and promoting awareness campaigns. Only through a collective effort can we work towards reducing pedestrian fatalities and creating safer roads for all.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
The Aviva survey serves as a wake-up call. It highlights the vulnerabilities of pedestrians and the need for greater safety measures. The government, road safety agencies, and individuals must take action to address this issue. This includes public awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and lighting on roads. Every life matters, and it's time we prioritize road safety to create a safer future for everyone on our roads.
