Charity supporting families bereaved by RTCs taking part in DfI Speed Limit Review consultation

Life After, the local charity which supports families bereaved by road traffic collisions (fatalities), has described speed on the roads as a “massive issue”.

Speaking to The Derry News, Christopher Sherrard who co-founded the charity in 2017 following the death of his father, Wilson Sherrard, in a road traffic collision a year earlier, welcomed the Department for Infrastructure’s (DfI) Speed Limit Review consultation.

The 14-week consultation was launched on Wednesday (January 14) and will close on April 22, 2026.

“Speed, over the years, has been a massive issue and hopefully the new measures being looked at will help to reduce accidents and fatalities,” said Mr Sherrard. “Life After will be taking part in the Speed Limit Review consultation.

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“This year we were pleased to see that the Derry and Strabane district council area had no fatalities on our roads, which from a Life After and North West Road Safety Partnership end is very encouraging,” he added.

“We are so blessed in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area that road safety and assistance to families bereaved by road traffic collisions is endorsed by the local council and agencies who work collectively to ensure that road safety is promoted through education and Road maintenance.”

The Speed Limit Review is supporting the Road Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland to 2030.

The Review is seeking the view of the public on speed limits which DfI said were aimed at “improving road safety”.

Options being considered by DfI include a review of 20mph speed limits; national speed limits on single rural and dual carriageway roads; and HGV Speed Limits.

A DfI spokesperson said: “Evidence shows excessive speed remains one of the most significant factors in the severity of collisions and fatalities on our roads

“Evidence indicates the introduction of further 20mph speed limits would improve road safety. Communities report feeling more comfortable and connected when traffic moves at slower speeds, contributing to a stronger sense of place,” they added.

“Evidence also shows a correlation between road deaths on rural roads and excessive speeds and indicates that a reduction in speed limits on rural roads would improve road safety.

“Slower speeds can help protect all road users and improve survivability in the event of a crash. This applies to a lesser extent on dual carriageways, but lower speeds can reduce the likelihood and severity of collisions.

“Increasing HGV speed limits can lead to smoother traffic flow, reduced overtaking risks, and improved journey times for HGV drivers.

“By increasing HGV speed limits, they would be aligned with speed limits in other regions,” said the DfI spokesperson.
Notwithstanding the Speed Limit Review, any changes to speed limits would require additional budget cover and changes to legislation.

Commenting on the Speed Limit Review, Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said: “Road safety is a high priority for me and for my Department, and I am delighted to announce this public consultation of a Speed Limit Review as part of my commitment to working proactively to make our roads safer for everyone.

“It is clear from the evidence that excessive speed remains one of the most significant factors in collisions and fatalities on our roads.

“Sadly 56 people died as a result of road traffic collisions in 2025 and 69 lives were tragically lost in 2024. These are not just statistics. Behind the numbers are families and communities who have been left heartbroken by often preventable tragedies.

“Every life lost on our roads is a call to action for both the government and society.

“Lower speed limits are proven to reduce fatalities and injuries, protect vulnerable road users, and create healthier communities. They also support wider environmental and public health goals by encouraging active travel and reducing emissions.

“Together, we can make our roads safer for everyone. I sincerely encourage you to read this review, share your thoughts, and join us in shaping a safer future for all.”