Number of road deaths in Northern Ireland rises in 2022

A total of 55 people lost their lives as a result of road crashes in Northern Ireland during 2022, five more than the previous year.

The statistics are correct up to Thursday, December 29 though another death occurred on Friday morning when a 51-year-old woman was killed following a single-vehicle collision in the Ballyhackamore area of east Belfast.

Although the number of deaths has risen slightly this year figures have shown a steep downward trend since 2000 when there were 171 road deaths in Northern Ireland.

During the past 12 months nine motorcyclists and one cyclist were killed on the roads. There were three child (under 16) fatalities recorded in 2022, the same as in both 2021 and 2020.

The highest monthly death toll across the year was December where nine people died on Northern Ireland’s roads.

There have been 740 people seriously injured on the Province’s roads from January 1 to October 31. This compares to 627 people for the same period in 2021, an increase of 113 people. A final total for 2022 will not be confirmed by PSNI until spring 2023.

Julie Harrison, Department for Infrastructure permanent secretary, said: “It is important to remember that behind the figures, there are families and friends who are grieving and whose lives have been devastated.

"First and foremost, my thoughts are with those who are mourning a loved one; and with those whose lives have been changed by injury as a result of a road traffic collision.

“A split second on the road can have devastating consequences. We know that most road deaths and serious injuries are due to human error so by being vigilant at all times of other road users – people who walk, wheel, cycle, motorcycle, drive, ride a horse as well as passengers in vehicles – we can all make a difference.

“As we begin 2023, I ask all of us who share the road to respect fellow road users and 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.”

The news release from the department and the police said that the main causes of collisions continue to be driver carelessness or inattention, speeding and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Chris Todd said: “Across Northern Ireland, far too many families are starting the New Year, coping with the aftermath of a serious collision. From family members who have been killed or seriously injured, to those recovering or learning to live with life changing injuries.

“There are also far too many people now living with their own responsibility for the death or serious harm caused to another. That of course can lead to prosecution and potentially imprisonment.

“Police remain committed to working with communities and partners to make our roads safer for everyone, however the stark reality is that many collisions can be avoided.

“We all share the roads, so we all share the responsibility for road safety.

“Slow down. Pay greater attention to your surroundings. Always wear your seat belt and never drive after drinking or taking drugs.”