Laois has had four road fatalities within the first six months of 2025, according to the RSA, a figure that has tripled in comparison to the first half of 2024.

An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) are appealing to all road users to take action and use the roads with care over the forthcoming August Bank Holiday weekend.

The appeal comes as the RSA publish their 2025 half yearly report which analyses fatalities from January 1 to July 27.

This report based on 91 fatalities which occurred on public roads over this time period, shows that the number of those killed aged 46-65 is now the highest in six years.

Pictured above: a chart of fatalities by county for the first half of 2025. Figures from the RSA

• 27% of fatalities occurred between 12pm and 4pm
• 26% of all fatalities occurred between 8pm and 4am when traffic volumes tend to be lower
• Friday through Monday saw the greatest number of fatalities
• Over half (56%) of all fatalities occurred on 80km/h and 100kmh roads.

Pictured: statistics from the RSA on the time of day road fatalities have occurred

"As we head into a Bank Holiday weekend, when many of us may be looking forward to travelling and spending time with loved ones, I urge everyone to be mindful of their own safety and that of others," said Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Séan Canney.

"Simple measures like putting your phone away, slowing down, and paying attention to the road, could make the difference that prevents a tragedy," the Minister said.

Chief Superintendent Ray McMahon highlighted that the August Bank Holiday Weekend is one of the busiest on Irish roads.

"This is one of the busiest weekends on the roads. Not just for motorists, but at this time of year, it's one of the busiest weekends for cyclists and pedestrians. We ask everybody to be very conscious of our vulnerable road users, our cyclists and our pedestrians," the Chief Supt said.

"We're asking people to slow down, we're asking people to just plan their journey ahead. Some will have long journeys this weekend, so take your time and take your breaks. Don't be using mobile phones or anything that might distract you while driving. We really do not want to be visiting another family with terrible news this weekend," he highlighted.

Pictured: road fatalities by age group from the RSA

"We're going to be out in force from today straight through to next Wednesday, with extra checkpoints and considerable more enforcement in relation to speeding, mobile phone use, and seatbelts. So please drive carefully and drive responsibly.”

Sarah O'Connor, Director of Partnerships and External Affairs, highlighted the positive and negative statistics found in the recent RSA report.

"We’re here today in Mayo to launch our August Bank Holiday road safety campaign — a county that, heartbreakingly, is among the hardest hit by road deaths so far this year. Each life lost on our roads is someone’s son, daughter, friend, or neighbour — and here in Mayo, those losses are deeply felt," Ms O'Connor said.

"Our mid-year report launched today, shows that while there’s been a welcome fall in overall fatalities, we’re seeing more motorcyclists, cyclists, and passengers being killed. That tells us we all need to stay switched on.

"So, wherever you're going this weekend — whether it’s a match, a festival or just a catch-up with family and friends — take a moment before you get behind the wheel. Slow down. Belt up. Put the phone out of reach and never drive while under the influence. Let’s protect each other — so that no more families have to endure the pain of an empty seat at the table," she finished.

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