Older drivers in Northern Ireland have been urged to take extra care on roads as part of a new safety campaign launched by the Department for Infrastructure.
The "Share the Road to Zero" initiative aims to reduce road deaths and serious injuries, with a particular focus on drivers aged over 70.
The Commissioner for Older People, Siobhan Casey, has added her support to the campaign, warning that older road users become more vulnerable in collisions.
"Too many older people are being seriously injured on our roads, whether as drivers or pedestrians, and this is something we cannot ignore," Ms Casey said.
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She stressed that while older drivers are statistically less likely to cause fatal crashes than younger motorists, the consequences for them can be far more severe.
Ms Casey added: "With icy winter conditions and shorter daylight hours, it is more important than ever that older drivers take extra precautions to stay safe.
"We should all think about any health conditions or changes that might affect our driving and take steps to manage them so we can remain safe, confident, and independent for as long as possible."
The campaign also reminded older drivers to check road conditions, ensure their licences are up to date, and be aware of the different rules for renewing licences after the age of 70.
The campaign specifically targeted older drivers to ensure they remain road safe
|DEPARTMENT FOR INFRASTRUCTURE
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins welcomed the Commissioner's involvement and thanked her for keeping the elderly safe on the road.
She continued, saying: "Sadly, too many people are killed or seriously injured each year, and more than 95 per cent of road deaths are due to human error.
"If we all take personal responsibility, we can help reduce fatalities. The sad reality is that if we don't change our attitudes behind the wheel, the death toll will continue to rise."
The Department for Infrastructure launched a social media campaign last year to raise awareness of the importance of being fit to drive, including checking eyesight and reporting medical conditions that could affect driving.
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Older motorists need to renew their licence more frequently once they turn 70 | GETTYThe campaign aims to remind older drivers to check road conditions, keep their licences up to date, and be aware of the different rules for licence renewal after the age of 70.
Ms Kimmins praised the Commissioner's involvement and highlighted the Department's social media campaign launched last year, which aims to raise awareness about being fit to drive.
The campaign has also received backing from sports figures across Northern Ireland, including Ulster Ladies GAA captain Clodagh McCambridge, Olympian Ciara Mageean, Liverpool and Northern Ireland footballer Conor Bradley, and Ulster Rugby players Jacob Stockdale, Nick Timoney, and Michael Lowry.
Several organisations, including the Northern Ireland Football League, PSNI, Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, Road Safe NI, and local councils, have pledged their support.
Adults are recommended to get an eye test every two years | PAMs Casey concluded: "This campaign is about keeping everyone on the roads safe. Older drivers play a key role, but we all need to take responsibility and look out for each other."
The campaign, "Keep Yourself Right," directs drivers to advice about dealing with medical conditions, eyesight checks, and licence renewal.
Another campaign, "Time to Talk," also encourages people to raise concerns about someone else's driving if necessary.