Speeding in school zones puts the lives of children at risk every single day in Northern Ireland. With many schools located on busy roads or in residential areas, far too many drivers across the country disregard speed limits and recklessly speed through school zones. This poses a serious threat to the safety of children that go to and from school.
Laws In Northern Ireland To Slow Drivers Down
In an effort to improve child safety near schools, the Department for Infrastructure recently implemented a new law reducing speed limits around schools. The Schools (Part-Time 20mph Speed Limit) (Amendment) Order (Northern Ireland) 2022 reduces the speed limit to 20 mph in the vicinity of 112 schools when signs are posted. This rule amends previous legislation from 2018 that established similar part-time 20 mph zones near other schools. By lowering the speed limit, officials hope to slow drivers down and prevent tragic accidents.
Shocking Statistics On Child Accidents Near Schools
According to Brake, the road safety charity, excessive speed plays a role in 25% of all fatal crashes involving child pedestrians. And when a vehicle hits a child at 30 mph, the impact has twice as much force as a 20 mph collision.
Brake also reports that 64% of parents surveyed say their child’s school does not have 20 mph zones on surrounding roads. Meanwhile, over a third of parents admit they don’t let their kids walk to school because nearby roads seem too hazardous.
Flagrant Disregard For Speed Limits Across UK
Government figures paint a discouraging picture of rampant speed limit violations across the UK – especially on roads with 20 mph limits. A shocking 86% of journeys on roads with 20 mph limits exceeded the speed limit. Since many 20 mph zones are around schools and in residential areas, this essentially means the vast majority of drivers are speeding through areas filled with vulnerable pedestrians including children.
But it’s not just 20 mph zones where speeding is widespread. Over half of journeys on 30 mph roads surpass the limit. And almost half of motorway journeys clock speeds over 70 mph. This data reveals a pervasive culture of excessive speeding across all road types.
Encouraging Road Safety At Home
While government and law enforcement agencies have a duty to improve road safety, parents also need to do their part. Experts recommend parents instil road safety habits in children from a very young age. It’s important that you hold your child’s hand whenever near traffic. Additionally, make sure to use crosswalks and look both ways before crossing. Explain how speeding cars can’t stop quickly. Lead by example and obey speed limits around your child. Avoid distracted driving that takes focus off the road. And talk to your child’s school about implementing more traffic calming measures such as speed bumps if you feel that vehicles are driving too quickly.
What To Do If Your Child Is Injured By A Speeding Driver
If the worst happens and your child suffers injury in a speed-related traffic collision near school, contact our experienced personal injury solicitors immediately. At Paschal O’Hare Solicitors, we have over 50 years of experience advocating for Northern Irish accident victims. Our solicitors will launch an investigation into the accident and build the strongest case in order for you to receive the compensation you deserve. This compensation can help pay for your child’s medical costs, rehabilitation services and other expenses stemming from the accident. With compassion and expertise, we will fight to help your family through this difficult time.
Speeding in school zones jeopardises children’s safety every day across Northern Ireland. At Paschal O’Hare Solicitors, our solicitors are dedicated to supporting victims injured by reckless driving. Don’t hesitate to arrange a free consultation if a speeding driver has harmed your child or visit our offices in Belfast, Glengormley, and Carrickfergus.
