Almost a third of fatal collisions are the result of speeding.

As a national 24-hour speed enforcement operation begins today, An Garda Síochána is reminding drivers of the dangers of excessive or inappropriate speed in an effort to save lives and reduce injuries on our roads.

A Road Safety Authority (RSA) report on fatal collisions between 2008 and 2012 found that the higher the speed, the greater the likelihood is of a collision happening and the more severe the outcome of that collision.

The report also noted that half of all drivers (52%) were observed speeding on urban roads and over a quarter (27%) were speeding on rural roads.

National Slow Down Day will consist of high visibility speed enforcement in 1322 speed enforcement zones.

“Firstly I would like to thank the majority of those who travel within the speed limits,” said Chief Superintendent Michael Hennebry Garda National Roads Policing Bureau.

“However, our enforcement operations continue to detect motorists traveling at speeds significantly above the posted speed limits. This reckless behaviour poses a serious risk not just to the motorists themselves, but to all the road users, especially vulnerable pedestrians and cyclists.

“This is not just about speeding enforcement detections. It’s about saving lives”.

As a general rule a 1% reduction in average speed will bring about a 4% reduction in fatal collisions.

“This National Slow Down Day, and indeed every day, please remember the faster you drive, the more likely you are to crash which could result in death or serious injury.” said Sam Waide, CEO, Road Safety Authority.

“Slow down – drive at a speed that is appropriate to the conditions and your experience and remember a speed limit is not a target.”