The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Minister for Infrastructure have issued a combined plea for increased road safety awareness ahead of the Easter holidays. With a rise in traffic expected as people travel to socialise and attend events, authorities are urging all road users to take personal responsibility for their safety and the safety of others.

Since the beginning of 2026, 20 people have died on Northern Ireland's roads. Chief Inspector Simpson, Head of Road Policing, described the loss of life as "devastating" and noted that too many lives are being ruined in an instant.

"Our roads are a shared space and it's crucial we all work together to reduce risk taking and poor behaviour on our roads," Chief Inspector Simpson stated. "Our officers will be on patrol during this period to increase road safety and tackle the Fatal Five, the main reasons people are dying on our roads."

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins reinforced the message, calling for a societal shift in road behaviour. She said: "Too many people are dying on our roads, something that has been brought into sharp focus within recent months. We must all do everything we can to ensure no more families are plunged into the unimaginable and life changing grief that road deaths bring to their door." The Minister urged drivers to adhere to speed limits, avoid mobile phone distractions, and never drive under the influence of drink or drugs.

The PSNI confirmed that Operation Lifesaver patrols will be active across Northern Ireland, with a specific focus on the "Fatal Five" behaviours:

Speeding: Enforcement will continue, with drivers reminded they are responsible for their own speed.

Drink and Drug Driving: The public is urged never to travel with a driver suspected of being under the influence and to report such incidents immediately.

Inattention: Motorists are warned that taking their eyes off the road for even a few seconds can lead to tragedy.

Seatbelts: Statistics show 559 detections for failing to wear a seatbelt between December 2024 and November 2025.

Mobile Phone Use: Between December 2024 and November 2025, 1,060 drivers were caught using a handheld device behind the wheel.

Specific attention was also drawn to the safety of vulnerable road users. Chief Inspector Simpson reminded drivers to look out for pedestrians and motorcyclists, who have significantly less protection in the event of a collision.

Motorcyclists were also advised to ensure their equipment is in good working order and to drive according to weather conditions. "We all share the responsibility to prevent and reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads," added Chief Inspector Simpson. "Let's all work together and make the journey, and that of all road users, a safe one."