RSA Urges Students and Parents Put Safety First
Jun 12, 2009
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RSA Urges Students and Parents Put Safety First
The Road Safety Authority (RSA), today Friday 12th June, is urging leaving certificate students to put road safety first this weekend if celebrating the completion of examinations.
Noel Brett, CEO, RSA said “I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all the students in Ireland who completed exams; you have done the hard work and enjoy your celebrations but do so safely. Don’t put yourself or anyone else at risk of death or injury. Think of the implications for you, your family and friends”
“Our message is simple, if you are going out this weekend be sensible about the choices you make. We want you to arrive home safe, so if you decide to drive or travel as a passenger with friends don’t put your life or the lives of others at risk. Be aware of the dangers and understand that as young and often inexperienced drivers you are at greater risk on our roads. Remember too that if you decide to drive, don’t speed, never ever drive having consumed alcohol or drugs and always wear your safety belt” added Mr. Brett.
In addition Mr. Brett appealed to parents “You have supported your young person through their exams and we need one last action from you as the exams end and the celebrations start. As a parent I would encourage you to sit down today and talk with your young adults about responsible road use and consider putting a ‘Safer Driving Agreement’ in place. Ask yourself the following questions, are you satisfied that your son or daughter as a driver is competent and capable of keeping themselves safe? Are you satisfied that they are safe travelling as a passenger with tonight’s driver? If not seek a safer public transport alternative or agree to do the driving yourself.”
Mr. Brett concluded by highlighting the fact that “Only drivers with a full driving licence should drive unaccompanied. Any young person driving on a learner permit must, by law, be accompanied by a qualified driver who has held their full licence for two years. This keeps them away from situations that are most likely to lead to crashes.”
