Editorial: Speed limit reduction a postive step for safety - Kilkenny Live

The recent decision to reduce speed limits on certain Irish roads from 80km/h to 60km/h marks a significant step forward in improving road safety and reducing the tragic toll of collisions and fatalities.

In a country where road deaths actually increased last year, any initiative that has the potential to save lives should be welcomed. Research shows that even a slight reduction in speed can have an impact on the likelihood and severity of collisions. Lower speeds allow drivers more time to react to unexpected hazards or another driver’s error.

While the speed reduction is a positive change, it is crucial that it be clearly communicated to drivers. Local authorities have been updating and changing speed limit signs from 80km/h to 60km/h on relevant local roads, so road users can see which applies.

Adequate signage and proper road marking must be put in place so that motorists are well aware of the new limits. No one wants to see a situation where drivers who are used to doing a certain speed could unknowingly exceed the speed limit, and be prosecuted as a result. A map of affected routes in the county would not go amiss.

These lower speed limits are one measure to address the road carnage problem. Others remain. There is little doubt — as mentioned in these pages previously — that the use of mobile phones and ‘distracted driving’ is still a major problem.

Every year, local families are left devastated by road accidents. We owe it to them—and to ourselves—to leave no stone unturned in making roads safer.

ANOTHER SENTATOR

Finally, having last week welcomed and wished all the best to new senators Malcolm Noonan and Patricia Stephenson, we likewise extend salutations to Senator Evanne Ní Chuilinn.

She was appointed to Seanad Éireann by An Taoiseach Micheal Martin on Friday. Evanne is a familiar face from her years as a sports broadcaster, and a proud Kilkennywoman. We wish her well in this next endeavour.