Safety first ahead of Fatality Free Friday

Motorists should be thinking safety first when they step into their car for tomorrow’s Fatality Free Friday.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson and Police Minister Jack Dempsey said the month-long campaign for a pledge to drive carefully has highlighted road safety across the state.

“Last year, Fridays were the worst days for fatalities in Queensland, however there were no deaths on our state’s roads on Fatality Free Friday,” Mr Emerson said.

“This year we’re aiming to match that in Queensland and for there to be no deaths on Australian roads.

“Earlier this month we launched the Fatality Free Friday campaign at Parliament House and sent off two life-sized inflatable cars for a tour of the state.

“Already this year 128 lives have been lost on Queensland roads, and many of those could have been prevented.

“This year’s event also highlights the dangers at level crossings, so I urge all road users not to gamble with their lives when there’s a train crossing – it’s just not worth the risk.”

Mr Dempsey said Fatality Free Friday was about ensuring all Queenslanders had a safe day on roads across the state.

“I ask that all drivers take care whenever they are behind the wheel and take note of the Fatal Five – do not drink drive, do not speed, wear a seat belt, do not drive distracted and do not drive fatigued,” Mr Demspey said.

“Police are always on Queensland roads on the look-out for those who are driving recklessly or disregarding the road rules.

“The message is simple, if you do not obey the road rules, you will get caught.”

The pledge cars covered almost 7,000 kilometres and visited 11 different regional centres throughout the state from Toowoomba up to Cairns, and inland to Mount Isa. Anyone who is yet to make the pledge can visit the official Fatality Free Friday event at the Queen Street Mall tomorrow morning or go to www.fatalityfreefriday.com.au.

[ENDS] 31 May 2013

Media contact: Stephanie Shield 0418 186 625 (Minister Emerson)
                      Lea Emery 0417 226 114 (Minister Dempsey)