There was a 4% reduction in road deaths in Ireland in 2024 – with 23 of those taking place in Dublin.
The number of deaths dropped to 174 compared to 180 in 2023. Those deaths took place in 160 collisions in 2024 compared to 170 the year before.
Despite the drop there are still high numbers of deaths in males and those under the age of 25. There were almost a quarter of deaths – 23% – between the hours of 4pm and 8pm.
Dublin had the highest amount of road fatalities in 2024 with 23 people losing their lives. There were 19 deaths in Cork, 19 in Mayo and 17 in Donegal – accounting for 45% of all deaths.
Seven in 10 fatal road collisions occurred on roads with a speed limit of 80km/h or greater. Phase 2 of the Road Safety Strategy 2021- 2030 will be launched in 2025 with a formal adoption of the Phase 2 action plan early in the New Year.
Minister of State with special responsibility for Road Safety, James Lawless said: “Every single one of these deaths on our roads is a tragedy. We extend deepest sympathies to the friends, families and communities affected by these losses. I would also like to pay tribute to the emergency services, first responders, hospital workers and others who do such incredible work helping people on scene and in the aftermath of these events.”
Sam Waide, Chief Executive, RSA said: “With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of 174 lives to road traffic collisions this year, and our deepest thoughts are with the devastated families left grieving a loved one in 2024, including at Christmas. Despite this profound loss, the reduction in the number of fatalities on Irish roads this year is a very modest but important step in reversing the high number of road deaths we’ve seen over the past two years.”
Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, Roads Policing and Community Engagement, An Garda Síochána, said: “This slight reduction in the number of road fatalities on Irish roads, is of no solace to the families and loved ones of each one of the people that were killed in fatal road traffic collisions during 2024. I extend my deepest sympathies to all of those affected and at what must be a devastating time.
“As members of An Garda Síochána we cannot achieve any meaningful reduction in the number of people killed on Irish roads without the public’s full support. As we enter a new year, we urge all drivers to drive safely and slow down.”
For all the latest news from Dublin and surrounding areas visit our homepage.
Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive your daily dose of Dublin Live content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.