Northern Ireland

Drop in road deaths but PSNI data shows more people seriously injured in 2021

The 50 road deaths recorded in the north during 2021 was the second lowest since records began in 1931.
The 50 road deaths recorded in the north during 2021 was the second lowest since records began in 1931. The 50 road deaths recorded in the north during 2021 was the second lowest since records began in 1931.

FIFTY people lost their lives in road crashes in Northern Ireland during 2021, according to figures published by the PSNI.

The tally is six below the 56 killed in 2020 and the second lowest since records began in Northern Ireland in 1931.

But the PSNI data suggests a rising number of people being seriously injured and sharp jump in the number of deaths on motorcycles. Some 14 motorcyclists were killed in 2021, six more than in 2020 and 11 more than in 2019.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon described the number of motorcycle deaths as “shocking”, particularly with less traffic on the roads in 2021.

“Too many people have tragically lost their lives on our roads in this past year, and many hundreds more have suffered serious injuries,” she said.

The PSNI said 452 people were seriously injured in the first eight months of 2021, 69 more than the same period in 2020.

Ms Mallon said the evidence suggests around 90 per cent of road deaths and serious injuries were the result of human error.

“As we begin 2022 with hope, I ask all road users to follow these four basic rules: slow down, pay attention, never drive having taken alcohol or drugs and always wear your seatbelt, however short your journey,” she said.

PSNI Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson said: “The sad reality is that many collisions can be avoided. The number of motorcyclists killed on our roads this year is a real concern and a stark example of the vulnerability of our road users.

“As we look ahead to 2022 I am renewing our appeal for all everyone to slow down, pay attention, leave the mobile phone alone, always wear a seatbelt, and never drink or take drugs and drive.”