In a groundbreaking move, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has launched the ‘Zero Vision’ campaign with the ambitious goal of reducing road deaths in Ireland to zero by the year 2050. Named after Mary Ward, the first recorded road traffic incident victim in history, this campaign seeks to transform road safety in the country.
The ‘Who was Mary Ward? Vision Zero campaign is centered around the tragic story of Mary Ward, who lost her life in a road accident in Birr, Co. Offaly, in 1869. RSA CEO Sam Waide emphasizes the need for collective efforts, urging all road users to reevaluate their behaviors and initiate conversations with family, friends, and colleagues about improving road safety.
Liz O’Donnell, Chairperson of the RSA, highlights the campaign’s dedication to portraying the human impact of road tragedies by sharing stories from the families of victims.
Despite progress, the RSA reports that 130 people have lost their lives on Irish roads as of September 11, 2023, which is 25 more than the same period in 2022. The ‘Zero Vision’ campaign marks a significant step toward eliminating road fatalities and promoting safer road use nationwide.