Motorists are being urged to slow down and take extra care around schools as thousands of children across Ireland return to classrooms this week. The Road Safety Authority has issued the reminder following the publication of its latest Child Casualties Report, which found that 38 children aged 15 or under were killed and a further 620 seriously injured on Irish roads between 2021 and 2025. One in eight of those casualties was travelling to or from school at the time of the collision, while approximately two-thirds of children killed or seriously injured were pedestrians or cyclists. With the return to school bringing increased traffic and more young pedestrians and cyclists onto the roads, drivers are being asked to pay particular attention around schools during morning drop-off and afternoon collection times.
Sean Canney TD, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, said the figures highlight the vulnerability of younger road users.
“Every child should be able to use the roads safely, whether they are walking, cycling, taking the bus or travelling by car. I am asking drivers to slow down and take extra care around schools, particularly at drop-off and pick-up times.”
Parents are also being reminded to ensure children travelling by car use an appropriate child restraint for their age and size. Those cycling to school should wear a helmet and use suitable lights and high-visibility clothing where appropriate. Parking around schools is another area of concern. Drivers are being asked not to park on footpaths, where vehicles can obstruct pedestrians and potentially force children onto the road. The RSA has also highlighted the important role played by school wardens following reports of impatience and abuse from some motorists.
Michael Rowland, Director of Research, Standards & Assurance at the RSA, said drivers must obey instructions from school wardens and give children sufficient time and space to cross safely.
“Stopping for a school warden is a strict legal requirement, not a courtesy. When a school warden raises the stop sign you must stop and remain stopped.”
Failure to stop for a school warden can result in a €160 fixed charge and two penalty points. The RSA is encouraging motorists to allow additional time for journeys during the first weeks of the new school term, reduce their speed when approaching school zones and avoid distractions behind the wheel. Parents are also encouraged to take a few minutes to discuss road safety with their children, particularly if they are beginning to walk, cycle or travel independently to school. With roads becoming noticeably busier again this week, a little extra patience and awareness from all road users can help make the journey to and from school safer for everyone.
