GetSetGo insurance calls for mandatory fitment of telematics devices to reduce road deaths

Gary McClarty, Director of MCL Insurance Services (Ireland) Limited, which operates online insurance brands GetSetGo and its4women, is advocating for the mandatory fitment of telematics devices for new and inexperienced drivers to combat the alarming rise in road fatalities.

With over 60 deaths recorded on Irish roads this year, and 2023 marking the worst year in nearly a decade with 188 fatalities, Gary McClarty emphasised the urgent need for proactive measures to address this concerning trend.

“It is great to hear that Taoiseach Simon Harris has stated that road safety will be ‘a priority issue’ for him in his new role as the worrying upward trend in road deaths needs to be reversed,” says Gary McClarty. Statistics have shown that, since 2019, individuals aged 16 to 25, representing 20% of all road deaths despite comprising only 12% of the population, are disproportionately affected by these tragic incidents. Nearly one in three people killed on Irish roads since the start of the year were aged between 16 and 25.”

In light of Taoiseach Simon Harris’s commitment to prioritising road safety, Gary McClarty proposed legislative action mandating telematics devices for new and inexperienced drivers during their first two years of insurance coverage. This monitoring would enable insurance companies to assess driving habits and provide constructive feedback to promote safer driving practices.

Gary McClarty highlighted the effectiveness of telematics technology, noting that since the inception of telematics insurance in 2013, accident frequency has plummeted by over 70%. “Our experience clearly demonstrates that telematics can save lives. By monitoring new drivers’ behaviour on the road, we can significantly reduce accident rates and prevent fatalities,” continued Gary McClarty.

Discussing the potential benefits of such a mandate, envisioning Ireland as a global leader in road safety, Gary McClarty concludes: “This is a win win situation for everyone. Ireland could be held up as an example of a world leader in promoting road safety. Implementing mandatory telematics would not only save lives but also position Ireland as a beacon of road safety initiatives worldwide. The associated costs would be minimal, and the insurance industry is ready to absorb these expenses for the greater good of our communities. Even if this initiative saves just one life, it must be worth considering. Let us work together to make Ireland’s roads safer for everyone.”