The public are being asked to think of the 38,787 people who have died on Irish roads since records began.

Today is ‘World Day of Remembrance’ for road traffic victims which gives recognition to those who have died and the grief of their loved ones.

One way of marking tomorrow, World Day of Remembrance is to attend a memorial service. Click below for more #WDR2016 https://t.co/E1AsuhLfyY

— RSA Ireland (@RSAIreland) November 19, 2016

Road safety groups are calling on road-users to remember the basics and to drive carefully at all times.

A total of 23,948 people have been killed on roads in the Republic of Ireland since records began in 1959. Some 14,839 people have been killed on roads in Northern Ireland since deaths were first recorded in 1931.

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Shane Ross welcomed the fact that people both north and south were coming together to remember all the lives lost on the island’s roads.

“Many lives have been saved and injuries prevented as a result of the collaborative work by road safety agencies on both sides of the border in recent years so it is fitting that we should come together on World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims’ to remember those who have tragically died on the road and to also think of their families,” he said.

“I would also like to acknowledge the great work done by those in the Emergency Services and medical professionals, on both sides of the border, who have to deal with the aftermath and consequences of collisions.

“We will be thinking of them too on Sunday and the life-saving work that they do.”

Ms Moyagh Murdock, Chief Executive, Road Safety Authority said: “Tragically we have lost more lives on our roads this year compared to last year which is a very worrying development.

“I sincerely hope that all road users will use the day of remembrance for road traffic victims to reflect on their behaviour when using the roads and make a conscious effort to practice good road safety habits.

“I am pleased to team up with our colleagues in Northern Ireland again to raise awareness of this very important day.”

Chief Superintendent Aidan Reid of the Garda National Traffic Bureau said: “This Sunday gives us all an opportunity to reflect on our behaviour on the roads.

“An Garda Síochána is committed to working with communities and organisations to make every effort to keep our roads free from tragedy, but our biggest enemy is complacency. What someone might perceive as a small risk could have catastrophic consequences for someone else.

“Never, ever, drink and drive and never accept a lift in a car from a driver whom you suspect to have consumed alcohol or drugs.

“We would urge everyone to look at their actions on the roads and make every effort to be a better, safer driver.”