Twelve people have been killed in road collisions in the first four weeks of 2025, three less than the same period last year.
Gardaí say there will be a visible enforcement presence across the country for the upcoming February bank holiday weekend.
This is usually a high-risk period for collisions especially among young male drivers.
"Our message to motorists is to stay safe, expect the unexpected and therefore when you're on the roads, slow down," said Assistant Commissioner of An Garda Síochána Roads Policing and Community Engagement Paula Hilman.
Motorists in counties still affected by Storm Éowyn have been urged to be extra careful as many roads remain blocked by fallen trees and debris in the northwest and midlands.
Trees and electricity poles weakened during the storm may yet fall and further impact on roads in the worst affected areas.
Ms Hilman said: "Those people who have a journey to make by car this weekend, especially in areas still impacted by the storm, please make sure your focus is on the road and drive with extra caution.
"There may still be debris, trees or fallen and low-hanging electrical wires to be careful of when out on the roads whether you are driving, cycling or walking.''
Road Safety Authority CEO Sam Waide said: "The storm has gone away, but the weather conditions are still going to be unpredictable over the weekend.
"So, from a road safety point of view, let's not forget that every time we go on the road, whether you're walking, cycling, driving, there's always a risk, the risk of being involved in a road traffic collision."
Increased risks on bank holidays
Two people under the age of 25 have been killed on our roads so far this year.
Gardaí say the risk of a fatal or serious road traffic collision is highest between midday and 3pm on each of the four days of the St Brigid's Day bank holiday weekend.
Data collated by the Garda Analysis Service shows that a driver is most likely to be involved in a fatal or serious injury road traffic collision during these hours on Friday, 31 January 2025.
Drivers under the age of 25 are twice as likely to be involved in a fatal or serious injury collision during the hours of darkness.
Of the 175 people that lost their lives in road traffic collisions last year, 60 were aged between 16 and 25.
"Unfortunately, killer behaviours persist on our roads, so it is more important than ever that drivers do not speed, use their mobile phones or consume alcohol or drugs.
"Everyone travelling in a vehicle also needs to remember to use a seatbelt," said Mr Waide.
The government hopes that upcoming changes to the speed limit on rural roads, which will come into force on 7 February, will make a difference.
Minister of State at the Department of Transport Seán Canney said: "A reduction in the default speed limit from 80 to 60km/h on local rural roads - which can be narrow and winding, with limited visibility, and where sadly many collisions happen - is a step in the right direction towards tackling the unfortunate increase in fatalities and serious injuries we have seen in recent years."
Drivers and all other road users are being reminded to plan ahead and organise a safe way home if socialising over the coming days.
The road safety campaign runs from 7am this morning until 7am next Tuesday.
