The RSA has urged motorists to drive carefully over the busy Easter weekend. 

Last Easter, two people were killed, 18 were injured on the roads and the organisation believes this year will also be perilous. 

“Over the last five years, the Easter bank holiday period has seen its share, unfortunately, of fatalities and serious injuries,” RSA communications manager Brian Farrell said. 

“There’s a particular focus this year on the number of serious injuries on our roads and they tend to be forgotten; 67 people have been seriously injured in Easter bank holiday crashes in the past five years.” 

Motorway between Newbridge and Kildare. Picture by: Eamonn Farrell RollingNews.iePhoto: Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews.ie

45 people have died on Irish roads so far in 2023 - an increase of two compared to the same period in 2022.

“If you’re travelling to different parts of the country - maybe on a break - just remember the traffic will be heavy,” Mr Farrell advised. 

“Set out earlier if you can on your journey, give yourself plenty of time and don’t put yourself under pressure to get to your destination.

“And if you’re tired, stop and take a break.”

Main image: Traffic on the M50 motorway in Dublin in May 2020. Picture by: Leon Farrell/Rollingnews.ie