As the Department of the Environment (DOE) rolled out a new radio advertising campaign urging motorists and pedestrians to be on their guard, the minister said recent tragedies had served as a grim reminder of potential hazards on the road this time of year.
Mr Wilson said: "All road users, whether they are pedestrians or motorists, are responsible for ensuring not only do they get to their destination safely, but that others do too.
"Whether you are behind the steering wheel or on foot, you really have to be alert to what other road users are doing and also be aware of other hazards especially at this time of year when you have gales, snow and ice.
"You really do have to have your wits about you which is why it is a stupid idea to drink and drive."
The DOE's new advertising campaign focuses on the devastating impact of road accidents on families during the Christmas season.
The minister said: "At this time of year it is understandable in the run-up to and over Christmas that people want to celebrate and enjoy themselves to the full.
"However, people must not put themselves and other road users at risk.
"People should feel free to celebrate Christmas by dining and drinking with family, friends, work colleagues, at home, in a pub, club or restaurant if they choose.
"However, with that choice comes responsibility and people who drink have a responsibility not just to themselves but to others as well. The safest way to do that is to book a taxi or have a designated driver who will abstain from alcohol.
"Motorists and pedestrians who do not consume alcohol at this time of year also need to be aware of the dangers posed by those who have.
"But it isn't just drink that takes lives on the road. Motorists also need to be aware of the dangers of speeding, the problems posed by treacherous weather conditions and the need to ensure they are wearing seatbelts.
"As we head into the Festive Season, we have a duty not only to our own families and friends to ensure we are there to celebrate with them. We also have to ensure other people are able to celebrate with their relatives and friends."
Notes to Editors:
1. To date this year there have been 100 deaths on Northern Ireland roads as a result of road traffic collisions, 16 during the month of November alone.
2. Road user fatalities to 1 December 2008, can be broken down as follows;
Pedestrian 19
Driver 41
Passenger 22
Pedal Cyclist 2
Motorcyclist 15
Pillion Passenger 1
TOTAL 100
2. The new campaign, entitled ‘Gift’, consists of a portfolio of five 50 second radio edits and supporting media. The radio campaign will be supported with daily and Sunday press adverts and a range of digital and outdoor media.
3. For media enquiries please contact DOE Press Office 028 9054 0014 or out of office hours, contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
