The Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, Siobhan Casey, has officially pledged her support to the Department for Infrastructure's ongoing road safety initiative, 'Share the Road to Zero'.

With winter conditions presenting increased risks, the Commissioner highlighted the necessity for older motorists to take additional safety measures. While noting that older drivers are statistically less likely to cause fatal accidents than younger demographics, she pointed out that they remain highly vulnerable when collisions do occur.

Commissioner Siobhan Casey stated: "Too many older people are being seriously injured on our roads, whether as drivers or pedestrians, and this is something we cannot ignore. While statistically older car drivers are less likely to be responsible for serious or fatal collisions on our roads compared to young car drivers, the reality is that in the event of a collision they are more likely to be badly hurt and to face a longer road to recovery."

She added: "We are now in mid-winter with icy conditions and reduced daylight making driving more challenging for everyone, it's more important than ever that older drivers take extra precautions to stay safe. I would also encourage everyone to consider any health conditions or changes that might affect their driving and take the necessary steps to manage these so that we all can remain safe, confident and independent for as long as possible." The campaign focuses on encouraging older drivers to remain vigilant regarding road conditions, ensure their licences are updated following any illness, and understand the specific renewal requirements once they reach the age of 70.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins welcomed the Commissioner's involvement, noting that human error accounts for over 95% of road deaths.

The Minister commented: "I want to thank the Commissioner for highlighting the ways in which older drivers can keep safe on our roads and making sure we all follow the appropriate steps in the event of illness or eyesight issues. Sadly too many people are killed and seriously injured on our roads every year and more than 95% of road deaths are due to human error."

Minister Kimmins continued: "All of us can make a difference and help save lives by taking more care when using the roads. Our recent Fitness to Drive campaign is also a reminder to us all to follow the right steps in the event of illness and other health issues and for older people to be aware of the differing requirements for those aged 70 plus when renewing their licence. If we all keep ourselves right by taking personal responsibility, we will help make roads safer and help reduce fatalities. The sad reality is that if we do not all change our own attitudes when we are driving, our death toll will continue to increase."

A wide array of high-profile figures and organisations have already backed the campaign. Supporters include Olympic athlete Ciara Mageean, Northern Ireland footballer Conor Bradley, and GAA stars Clodagh McCambridge and Rory Grugan. They are joined by representatives from Ulster Rugby, the Belfast Giants, the PSNI, and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.