Northern Ireland

Road deaths did not fall last year, despite pandemic

A total of 56 people died on the roads last year - the same figure as in 2019
A total of 56 people died on the roads last year - the same figure as in 2019 A total of 56 people died on the roads last year - the same figure as in 2019

THE number of road deaths did not fall in 2020, even though there was less traffic due to the coronavirus pandemic.

A total of 56 people died on the roads last year - the same figure as in 2019.

Figures released by the PSNI show that, up to December 30, 26 drivers; nine passengers; six pedestrians; four cyclists; eight motorbike riders; one pillion passenger, and two other road users had died.

The highest number of deaths were recorded in January and July, with eight fatalities in each month respectively.

December saw two deaths.

The number of road deaths has remained steady since 2018, when 55 people died.

Over the last decade, 2014 saw the highest number of deaths, with 79 fatalities.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said the figures from 2020 were disappointing adding it had been an "unusual year due to the global pandemic."

"It is disheartening that, with less traffic on the roads during the year, the same number of deaths have still occurred compared to 2019.

"Evidence shows that most road deaths are avoidable, as more than nine in ten deaths and serious injuries are due to human error.

“However we choose to travel, we each have a responsibility to ourselves and others to do so safely."

PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Jonathan Roberts said: "Despite the downward trend and overall reduction in the number of people killed on our roads in recent years, one death is one too many.

"Across Northern Ireland, the sad reality is that there are families and communities that begin the new year as they come to terms with the death of loved ones killed in road traffic collisions during 2020.

"Many more people are fighting to recover from, or are learning to cope with, life changing injuries."