FIFTY-FIVE people died in road traffic crashes last year in Northern Ireland, the lowest total since records began 80 years ago. Last year’s total fell sharply from 115 deaths recorded in 2009.
Police and public representatives said 55 fatalities were still too many and they pledged to reduce the number.
Minister for the Environment Edwin Poots said: “The figures released today are a significant milestone for road safety here and the reduction is very welcome. But it is with extreme caution that we note the number of lives saved in 2010.
“It is difficult to take pleasure from this record low when 55 people just like you and me were going about their normal business, presumably with hope, ambition and enthusiasm for the life they expected to have. But they didn’t get the chance to fulfil their ambitions.”
The PSNI officer in charge of road safety welcomed the fall but warned against complacency.
Supt Muir Clarke said: “I think the recession has played a part – the increase in petrol prices has played a part that has potentially made people slow down.”
He also said there had been “a focused, structured advertising campaign throughout the year”.
Cross-Border co-ordination on road traffic offences was also credited with helping to lower the death toll.