‘Significantly higher’ rates of collisions prompt safety review on busy Clare commuter route

Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has announced their intention to review safety on the N18 and M18 following a recent spike in collisions.

With 16 incidents recorded in September and 9 in October, a spokesperson for the TII also confirmed that the number of collisions in September was 'significantly higher' than the monthly average between January and August this year.

Clare Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe has welcomed the review , particularly on the stretch between Ennis and Cratloe, saying it is a "positive step towards safer conditions along the roadway" following the stark incidents increase along the busy commuter route.

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"It is becoming far too regular an occurrence along the road," Crowe said, noting that daily users have grown all too familiar with traffic jams, delays, and diversions caused by weekly incidents.

He added that he raised the matter directly with the Minister for Transport and TII in October and called on them to investigate the recent spike in collisions.

"The TII have confirmed that they are now to review the data relating to the recent collisions to see if there is any common factor contributing to them and, if so, any measures that should be considered to reduce the risk." 

Crowe also highlighted the role of driver behaviour in collisions along the route, saying: "However, it is clear to anyone that drives that route regularly that driver behaviour also has a role to play in reducing the risk of collisions."

Highlighting issues such as speeding, tailgating, using phones while driving and dangerous lane changes, he urged all road users to follow the Road Safety Authority's advice by leaving space to the car in front, sticking to speed limits, considering weather conditions and avoiding phone use while driving.

He added that he will be meeting with Clare Chief Superintendent Aileen Magner in the coming weeks to request increased visible Garda policing along the N18/M18, stating: "It is welcome to see this focus on safety along the route and I hope it leads to a sustained reduction in collisions."