Road Safety Appeal Issued After ‘Catastrophic’ Weekend On Northern Ireland Roads

The Police Service of Northern Ireland and Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins have issued an urgent Northern Ireland road safety appeal after five people died in just 24 hours. Road deaths in 2026 have now reached 29 — more than double last year’s figure.

Urgent Road Safety Appeal Across Northern Ireland

The Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Department for Infrastructure have issued a serious Northern Ireland road safety appeal following a devastating weekend on local roads.

Five people lost their lives in road traffic collisions between Saturday 25 April and Sunday 26 April 2026.

This brings the total number of road deaths this year to 29, compared to 14 at the same stage in 2025.

Five People Killed In 24 Hours

Speaking at Police Headquarters, Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones described the situation as “catastrophic.”

She extended sympathies to the families of those who died and those injured, highlighting the devastating human cost of road collisions.

Road Deaths More Than Double Last Year

So far in 2026, 29 lives have been lost on Northern Ireland roads.

According to Liz Kimmins, that equates to a fatality approximately every four days.

She described each incident as a tragedy that leaves long-lasting impacts on families and communities.

Fatal Five Road Safety Warning

The Police Service of Northern Ireland is urging all drivers to follow the Fatal Five rules:

• Control your speed
• Put your phone away
• Never drink or drug drive
• Avoid distractions
• Always wear your seatbelt

Busy Period Ahead For Northern Ireland Roads

With the upcoming May bank holiday and the North West 200 in Portrush, roads across Northern Ireland are expected to become significantly busier.

Police have confirmed there will be a visible enforcement presence targeting dangerous driving behaviours.

Appeal To Drivers And Road Users

Minister Liz Kimmins urged all road users to think carefully before setting out.

Many people will be travelling to enjoy the good weather and attend events, but safety must remain the priority.

Useful Road Safety Links

• PSNI Road Safety Advice: https://www.psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/keeping-safe/road-safety
• Department for Infrastructure: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/topics/roads-and-transport
• NI Direct Road Safety Information:
• https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/road-safety
• North West 200 Event Info: https://www.northwest200.org

As Northern Ireland heads into a busy travel period, drivers are being urged to slow down, stay alert, and make safer choices.

One mistake behind the wheel can have life-changing consequences.