Roads safety message issued as crash death numbers double 2025 figure

A joint road safety message has been launched in Northern Ireland as figures showed the number of collision fatalities for the first quarter of the year has doubled.

The joint PSNI/Department for Infrastructure road safety message comes ahead of the Easter holidays when higher volumes of traffic are expected.

According to PSNI statistics, by Tuesday there had been 20 people killed on the region’s roads compared to 10 by March 31 in 2025, and 15 by March 31 in 2024.

Speed enforcement, in particular, is set to continue across the Easter period with Operation Lifesaver patrols.

Police have also reminded those travelling to wear seatbelts, revealing that officers made 559 detections for seatbelts not being worn between December 2024 and November 2025.

They also warned about the dangers of using a mobile phone or device while driving, saying that between December 2024 and November 2025, 1,060 drivers were detected using their phone behind the wheel.

PSNI head of road policing Chief Inspector Celeste Simpson described the number of deaths as “devastating”.

“Since the start of this year, we have lost 20 lives on our roads,” she said.

“This is devastating, with too many lives ruined forever and in an instant.

“Our roads are a shared space and it’s crucial we all work together to reduce risk-taking and poor behaviour on our roads.

“To all drivers, we are appealing to you to work with us to help make our roads safer for everyone.”

Ms Simpson said police will be on patrol across Easter to increase road safety.

She urged drivers: “Take a few minutes before you drive off and think about how you want your car journey to end.

“Driving requires your undivided attention. Take your eyes off the road for even a few seconds and it could mean the difference between an enjoyable weekend break and a tragedy you have to live with for the rest of your lives.”

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said drivers should remain focused when using the roads.

She said: “Too many people are dying on our roads, something that has been brought into sharp focus within recent months.

“We must all do everything we can to ensure no more families are plunged into the unimaginable and life-changing grief that road deaths bring to their door.

“I urge all of us to remain focused when using the roads, abide by the speed limits, never take drugs or alcohol before driving and ignore the mobile phone.

“Making these changes will make a significant difference to all our safety.”