Infrastructure Minister has written to the Lady
Chief Justice, Dame Siobhan Keegan, following a recent case where
a motorist was caught driving at 100mph. In that case the judge
noted that there was a reason for the speeding offence.
The Minister said: “While I am not privy to all of the details of
any case taken before the courts, I believe it is incumbent upon
all of us to send out a strong message when it comes to speeding
and other road user behaviours which endanger lives.
“Put quite simply, speeding can and does kill. There can never be
a reason or excuse for driving at 100mph in a 60mph zone. We need
to get real and have honest conversations with ourselves and with
others about how we behave on the roads.
“We are just nine months into this year, and tragically,
43 people have lost their lives on our roads and the tragic
reality is that number will increase before the year is out. Our
annual statistical report published today shows that last year in
2023 there were 71 fatalities in road traffic collisions, which
is an increase of 29% from 2022. These are shocking statistics,
but this is about so much more than that – it's about people.
Behind the figures are loved ones who set off on an everyday
journey but, they are never coming home to their family and
friends. From the moment that happens, lives are shattered and
will never be the same again.
“Sadly, evidence shows that more than 95% of road deaths are due
to human error – including careless or inattentive driving,
inappropriate speed for the road or the conditions, and drink and
drug driving. Together these account for most deaths and serious
injuries. I am therefore asking all road users to consider their
own personal actions to ensure road safety for all.”
