More than half of Irish road users (51pc) feel less safe on the roads today compared to 10 years ago, with a staggering 35pc saying they feel “way less” safe.
A new nationwide survey commissioned by Gallagher and conducted by iReach on 1000 adults throughout the country has revealed that pedestrians feel the most at risk, with 56pc saying they feel less safe, while women are more likely than men to say the same, at 60pc and 42pc respectively.
The findings come at a time when speed limits on Irish roads are being reduced in order to improve road safety conditions. The move follows a period of rising road fatalities, with 181 deaths recorded in 2023, a 19pc increase on the previous year, and 174 deaths recorded in 2024, according to data from the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána [1].
Gallagher’s research shows that while, at 86pc, people are broadly in favour of the new reductions in speed limits throughout the country, there is a divergence of views as to whether the new rules go far enough.
Geraldine Kelly, Head of Operations, Gallagher in Ireland said the findings reflect growing anxiety around road safety,
" Our survey suggests many people are increasingly feeling unsafe on Irish roads. The increase in road fatalities, particularly among pedestrians and cyclists, in recent years is being felt by the nation. The new speed limits may go some way to easing safety concerns, but it is incumbent on us all as road users to behave safely and to adhere to all the rules in place to safeguard ourselves and others.”
Who is feeling less safe on Irish roads?
The Gallagher survey results show that road safety concerns vary depending on road use, age, gender, and location:
- More cyclists (37pc), than motorists (16pc) or pedestrians (15pc), said they feel safer now, which could possibly be due to increased cycling infrastructure.
- Older respondents are the most concerned, with 65pc of those aged 55+ saying they feel less safe. This figure steadily rises from 33pc among 25-34-year-olds to 55pc for those aged 45-54.
- People in Connacht/Ulster are more likely than people in other areas of the country to say they’ve experienced a worsening in road safety at 62pc, compared to 53pc in Munster and 45pc in Leinster (excluding Dublin).
Public Reaction to New Speed Limits
As part of efforts to improve road safety, new speed limits are being introduced in Ireland throughout 2025[2].
The Gallagher survey revealed that although support is widespread, public opinion is divided on the specifics and the application of the changes:
- Cyclists and pedestrians are most likely to say they “fully support” the changes at 41pc compared to 35pc of motorists
- 18pc overall believe the changes should apply only to urban areas
- Almost one in four of people believe the changes do not go far enough
- More women (41pc) than men (32pc) fully support the changes
- The over-55s are the most supportive age group (44pc)
Ms. Kelly noted,
"The mixed reaction to these changes suggests that while many support them, others feel more targeted solutions are needed, particularly outside urban areas. Whilst the changes to speed limits will help to keep drivers more safe on roads, motorists must also ensure they are driving carefully. Taking precautions, such as avoiding distractions or driving when tired, maintaining a safe following distance and ensuring your vehicle is well maintained can help keep you safe when you’re driving.”
How we use our roads
Gallagher’s survey provides some interesting insights into how people use Ireland’s roads, with driving remaining dominant, particularly outside of Dublin;
- 90pc of people in Connacht/Ulster identify as motorists, compared to 68pc in Dublin and 77pc in the rest of the country.
- In contrast, cycling habits vary sharply by region -nearly 1 in 5 Dubliners (19pc) cycle, compared to just 10pc in Munster and no more than 7pc elsewhere.
- Age and gender also influence cycling participation. Men (16pc) are more than twice as likely as women (7pc) to cycle, and cycling is far more common among younger adults (30pc of 18-24-year-olds), dropping significantly to just 7pc among over-55s.
Safe Driving Tips from Gallagher in Ireland:
- Avoid distractions when driving and don’t engage in activities which could take your focus away from the road. For example, it is advisable that motorists put away their phones and avoid drinking or eating when driving.
- Obey speed limits and drive at an appropriate speed for road conditions. For example, driving at a lower speed during bad weather or where there are pedestrians and cyclists present.
- Keep enough space between your vehicle and the one in front of you, to allow for a safe breaking time.
- Ensure your vehicle is correctly maintained to avoid potential accidents. For example, performing regular checks on tire pressure and tread, lights, brakes, fluids and wipers, and addressing any issues immediately.
- Take breaks as and when you need them to reduce tiredness when driving on roads as this could increase your risk of an accident.
- Ensure you are using your headlights and taillights when it is dark outside so that you are visible to other drivers.
[1] As per RSA Release January 2025
[2] Rural local roads: 80km/h → 60km/h ; National secondary roads: 100km/h → 80km/h; Urban centres & housing estates: 50km/h → 30km/h
