Police urge caution on roads ahead of May Bank Holiday Weekend

PSNI Chief Inspector Celeste Simpson, Head of Road Policing

As the first May Bank Holiday weekend approaches, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is urging all road users to prioritise safety and avoid the devastating consequences of reckless driving.

With an expected surge in traffic and pedestrians enjoying the warmer weather, the PSNI is calling on drivers, cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians to remain vigilant and adhere to essential road safety principles.

Chief Inspector Celeste Simpson, Head of Road Policing, highlighted the increased risks during busy holiday periods.

“We know many people will be heading out to enjoy the weather at popular destinations across Northern Ireland, including our cities, towns and beaches,” she said. “We’re asking drivers to be vigilant, and be alert to the presence of motorcyclists and cyclists using the road network, particularly when emerging from and turning into junctions.”

The PSNI’s plea comes in the wake of a tragic start to 2025, with 13 fatal road traffic collisions already recorded in Northern Ireland.

“That’s 13 families, their loved ones, friends and communities whose lives have changed in an instant and forever by the sudden death of a loved one,” Chief Inspector Simpson said, underscoring the profound impact of these incidents.

The Fatal Five: A Deadly Threat on Northern Ireland’s Roads

Central to the PSNI’s road safety campaign is the ‘Fatal Five’—the five primary causes of fatal and serious collisions: speeding, drink or drug driving, careless driving, not wearing a seatbelt, and using a mobile phone while driving.

Chief Inspector Simpson stressed the importance of recognising and avoiding these dangers. “Our appeal is for everyone to recognise the dangers of the ‘Fatal Five’ and of the potentially life-changing consequences they carry,” she said.

Speeding remains a significant concern. During a single day of Operation Lifesaver—a PSNI initiative targeting speeding—approximately 800 motoring offences were detected, with around 700 related specifically to speeding.

“This is staggering,” said Chief Inspector Simpson. “Speeding is not just a low-level crime - it’s dangerous and it poses a serious threat to other road users. We cannot stress enough that slowing down and sticking to the speed limits can help save lives.”

The PSNI also expressed alarm at the persistent issue of drink and drug driving. “Worryingly, we are also continuing to detect drivers drink/drug driving, which is alarming as this places so many other road users in danger,” Chief Inspector Simpson added.

These behaviours not only endanger lives but can lead to severe penalties, including fines, penalty points, court appearances, loss of driving licences, and even imprisonment.

Operation Lifesaver: A Proactive Approach to Road Safety

Operation Lifesaver, launched by the PSNI to combat speeding, has been a cornerstone of their road safety efforts. On 16 April, a dedicated day of action saw officers and road safety camera vans deployed across Northern Ireland to enforce speed limits and educate drivers.

The initiative reflects the PSNI’s commitment to reducing road deaths and serious injuries, with a clear message: slowing down can save lives.

Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson, speaking at an earlier press conference in Belfast, reinforced this message ahead of the Easter holidays.

“Speed can cause crashes, it can end in tragedy, and we cannot stress enough that all of us who drive have a responsibility to keep everyone safe on the roads and help save lives,” he said. “If you speed, you could end up being involved in a collision, an injury collision or even a fatal collision.”

Donaldson also outlined the broader consequences of speeding.

“If you are caught speeding, you can be liable for a fine, a speed awareness course, penalty points on your licence or an appearance at court,” he said. “You could also lose your licence, have your insurance cancelled, lose your job, damage your reputation, or even spend time in prison.”

A Shared Responsibility for Safer Roads

The PSNI is appealing to all road users to play their part in preventing tragedies. For drivers, this means adhering to speed limits, avoiding distractions, and never driving under the influence.

Pedestrians are urged to remain visible to traffic, while cyclists and motorcyclists should take extra precautions at junctions and busy roads.

“There are also likely to be many more pedestrians on our roads,” Chief Inspector Simpson noted. “Please be aware of this as drivers, and to pedestrians please ensure you are visible to traffic at all times. Safety is paramount.”

The PSNI’s message is clear: road safety is a shared responsibility.

“We all share the responsibility to prevent deaths and serious injuries on our roads,” said Chief Inspector Simpson. “That’s why we are appealing to drivers to remember the ‘Fatal Five’ and how to avoid them. Don’t drink or take drugs and drive; slow down; don’t be careless; always wear your seat belt and never use your mobile phone while driving.

“It could mean the difference between an enjoyable weekend break and a tragedy you have to live with for the rest of your lives.”

Tips for a Safe May Bank Holiday on the Roads

To ensure a safe and enjoyable May Bank Holiday, the PSNI offers the following advice:

• Slow Down: Always adhere to speed limits and adjust your speed to road conditions.

• Stay Sober: Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Stay Focused: Avoid using mobile phones or other distractions while driving.

• Buckle Up: Ensure all passengers wear seatbelts at all times.

• Be Visible: Pedestrians should wear reflective clothing, and cyclists should use lights and high-visibility gear.

• Plan Ahead: Allow extra time for journeys to avoid rushing, especially on busy holiday routes.

As Northern Ireland prepares for a busy holiday weekend, the PSNI’s road safety campaign serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible road use. By avoiding the Fatal Five and taking simple precautions, road users can help ensure that the May Bank Holiday is remembered for the right reasons.

For more information on Operation Lifesaver and road safety tips, visit the PSNI’s official website.