Road safety experts gather at Brisbane forum

The Palaszczuk Government will convene a forum of Road safety experts today, to discuss ways to curb driver distraction and improve safety of pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said 50 motorcyclists, 35 pedestrians and eight cyclists lost their lives on Queensland’s roads last year.

“This vulnerable road user group accounted for 38 per cent of the overall road toll,” Mr Bailey said.

“Distracted driving is also a growing concern, with 27 fatalities, 11 per cent of the 2017 road toll, resulting from driver distraction.

“Every life lost and every person seriously hurt on our roads is one too many and causes unimaginable trauma and heartache.

“We are committed to doing all we can to reduce the road toll and feedback from today’s forum will improve the safety of Queensland’s most vulnerable road users.”

Mr Bailey said driver distraction was a growing concern, with Queenslanders across all age groups wanting to be continually connected via electronic devices.

“Transport and Main Roads research reveals about 75 per cent of Queensland drivers admit to using mobile phones while driving,” he said.

“This is disturbingly high and we need to ensure all drivers give their full attention to driving.”

Mr Bailey said the Safer Roads, Safer Queensland Forums provided different perspectives and suggestions on important road safety issues.

“It is important we continue to engage with key community stakeholders to improve safety on our roads to achieve our vision of zero fatalities and serious injuries,” Mr Bailey said.

“We have now held four forums and the specialist knowledge from industry experts and ideas from other road safety stakeholders has been invaluable in mapping the direction of road safety initiatives. They have provided key inputs to our Road Safety Strategy 2015 – 21 and two action plans.

“I want to acknowledge the contribution of the forum attendees who provided their knowledge, time and commitment towards reducing road trauma.

“I am sure these forums will continue to provide valuable input for road safety into the future.”

Background

Key initiatives developed and implemented based on input during previous Safer Roads, Safer Queensland forums include:

o   double demerit points for two or more mobile phone offences committed within one year;

o   youth road safety innovation challenge to engage with 16 – 24 year olds on road safety (3 Co-Labs held to date);

o   annual Road Safety Weeks with the Queensland Police Service to engage the community in important conversations about road safety;

o   a motorcycle safety education campaign for new and returning riders;

o   an app for the 100 hour learner logbook; and

o   reforms to the motorcycle licensing system to ensure novice motorcyclists have the appropriate skills, experience and attitudes to ride safety

ENDS

Media contact:          Chris Vernon, 0416 800 004