Men made up almost 80% of driver deaths from 2019 to 2023

Almost eight in ten drivers killed in crashes on Irish roads between 2019 and 2023 were men, according to a new report from the Road Safety Authority.

The RSA has said that 324 drivers were killed and 2,353 were seriously injured in crashes on Irish roads over the five-year period.

Male drivers are over-represented in the study, making up 78% of all driver deaths. Men also accounted for just over six in ten of the drivers who were seriously injured.

The majority of drivers who were killed or seriously injured were aged between 16 and 45 years old.

The RSA also said that a large majority of driver deaths (85%) happened on rural roads, which it defines as roads with a speed limit of 80 kilometres an hour or more.

Overall, drivers represented 43% of all road deaths between 2019 and 2023, RSA chief executive Sam Waide said.

"All drivers have a huge responsibility in making sure our roads are safe for all users," he said.

"Whether you're a new driver or have been driving for decades, it’s paramount to drive safely.

"Speeding and impaired driving continue to be killer behaviours, and it is important to stay alert and never text, use social media or talk on the phone while driving," Mr Waide added.

The study also found that the highest proportion of driver deaths took place in December (12%) and just over a quarter (28%) of fatalities happened at weekends.

So far this year 139 people have been killed on Irish roads, down six on the same point last year.