Police are appealing to all road users to exercise extra care and prioritise safety as the first May Bank Holiday weekend approaches, with increased traffic and pedestrian activity expected across Northern Ireland.

Head of Road Policing, Chief Inspector Celeste Simpson, highlighted the likelihood of busier roads as people travel to popular destinations, including cities, towns, and beaches, to enjoy the anticipated good weather.

"We're asking drivers to be vigilant, and be alert to the presence of motorcyclists and cyclists using the road network, particularly when emerging from and turning into junctions," said Chief Inspector Simpson. "There are also likely to be many more pedestrians on our roads. Please be aware of this as drivers, and to pedestrians please ensure you are visible to traffic at all times. Safety is paramount."

Chief Inspector Simpson also drew attention to the concerning number of fatal road traffic collisions this year. "Since the start of the year, there have been 13 fatal road traffic collisions across Northern Ireland. That's 13 families, their loved ones, friends and communities whose lives have changed in an instant and forever by the sudden death of a loved one."

She urged everyone to be aware of the "Fatal Five" and their potentially devastating consequences. "Our appeal is for everyone to recognise the dangers of the 'Fatal Five' and of the potentially life-changing consequences they carry." Addressing drivers directly, Chief Inspector Simpson emphasised the importance of adhering to speed limits. "For drivers this means slowing down and staying within the speed limits. In one day alone, during Operation Lifesaver, approximately 800 detections were made for motoring offences, around 700 specifically for speeding. This is staggering. Speeding is not just a low-level crime - it’s dangerous and it poses a serious threat to other road users. We cannot stress enough that slowing down and sticking to the speed limits can help save lives."

She also expressed concern about the continued issue of drink and drug driving. "Worryingly, we are also continuing to detect drivers drink/drug driving, which is alarming as this places so many other road users in danger."

Chief Inspector Simpson concluded by stressing the shared responsibility for road safety. "We all share the responsibility to prevent deaths and serious injuries on our roads. That’s why we are appealing to drivers to remember the ‘Fatal Five’ and how to avoid them. Don’t drink or take drugs and drive; slow down; don’t be careless; always wear your seat belt and never use your mobile phone while driving. It could mean the difference between an enjoyable weekend break and a tragedy you have to live with for the rest of your lives."

Operation Lifesaver is the Police Service's approach to speeding. 16th April was a day dedicated by PSNI to road safety focusing on speeding, with officers and road safety camera vans deployed across Northern Ireland. More via www.psni.police.uk/latest-news/operation-lifesaver-slow-down-and-save-lives