At H McPartland & Sons Solicitors, we see firsthand the devastating impact that road traffic incidents have on individuals, families, and the wider community. Road safety is not just a matter of statistics; it is a matter of public health, legal responsibility, and personal tragedy.
New official statistics published by NISRA (Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency) statisticians within the Department for Infrastructure have shed fresh light on the current attitudes of the Northern Irish public. These findings, based on information collected from the 2024/25 Continuous Household Survey (CHS), reveal a significant shift in what we perceive as the greatest threats on our roads.
The Leading Concern: Drink Driving
According to the latest report, drink driving has been identified as the most important road safety issue by 31% of respondents. This surpasses other major concerns, such as speeding (25%) and careless driving (20%).
It is a sobering reflection of our times that nearly a third of the population views driving under the influence as the primary danger. For our legal team, this data underscores the importance of the work we do in representing those affected by road accidents, as well as providing robust legal counsel for those facing motoring charges.
A Nation of Drivers and Pedestrians
The survey highlights just how reliant we are on our road network:
- 77% of people regularly use the roads as drivers.
- Males (79%) are slightly more likely to be behind the wheel than females (75%).
- Females (73%) are more likely to be passengers than males (65%).
Beyond the car, the transport network is a shared space. Two-thirds of respondents (66%) regularly use the network as pedestrians. However, where you live significantly impacts your habits; those in urban areas (73%) are notably more likely to walk than those in rural areas (55%).
The Weight of Responsibility
One of the most encouraging findings from the 2024/25 CHS is the high level of personal accountability felt by the public. An overwhelming 99% of respondents stated they considered themselves responsible for their own safety.
Furthermore, the sense of “duty of care”—a concept we deal with daily in personal injury and litigation law—is deeply embedded in the public psyche:
- 84% feel responsible for the safety of pedestrians.
- 80% feel responsible for other drivers.
Regional and Generational Divides
The data also reveals fascinating differences in concern based on age and location. While drink driving is the overall top concern, older people view the roads through a different lens. 33% of those aged 65 and over named speeding as their primary issue, compared to 24% of those under 65.
Geography also plays a role in our fears:
- Urban respondents are more concerned about drink driving (33%) than their rural counterparts (28%).
- Rural respondents are more concerned about speeding (28%) than those in urban areas (24%).
Why This Matters for You
As solicitors serving the communities of Lisburn and Lurgan, these statistics are more than just numbers; they represent the risks our clients face every day. Whether you are a pedestrian in a busy town centre or a driver on a rural road, the law exists to protect you.
If you have been involved in a road traffic collision or if you are seeking advice regarding a motoring offence, the expertise of a local solicitor is invaluable. At H McPartland & Sons, we have over 75 years of experience in criminal law and personal injury litigation. We understand the nuances of Northern Ireland’s road safety legislation and are committed to providing clear, empathetic, and professional guidance.
Seeking Legal Support?
Road safety is a collective effort, but when things go wrong, you need a team you can trust. If you require assistance with a motoring matter or wish to discuss a potential claim, our doors in Lisburn and Lurgan are open.
Contact H McPartland & Sons today for a consultation.
- Lurgan Office: 028 3832 2452
- Lisburn Office: 028 9267 0325
- Email: info@mcpartlands.com
Information in this article is sourced from the “Road Safety Issues Northern Ireland 2024/25” report published by the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) and NISRA on 12 February 2026.
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