Stay safe this Fatality Free Friday

Queenslanders are being urged to pay particular attention to road safety ahead of Fatality Free Friday next week.

Signing a pledge for road safety at Parliament House today, Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said he was deeply concerned this year’s road toll was higher than at the same time last year. 

He said as of this morning, 87 people had already lost their lives on Queensland roads, seven more than this time last year. 

‘‘One fatality is one too many, which is why I’m proud to once again support the Australian Road Safety Foundation’s Fatality Free Friday campaign,’’ Mr Bailey said. 

“The Australian Road Safety Foundation does a great job getting the message out about road safety. 

“All across Australia during May, people are joining forces and holding events just like this one. 

‘‘We all make choices each time we get behind the wheel and in some cases, these choices can have devastating consequences. 

“Whether you are a motorist, passenger, cyclist, motorbike rider or pedestrian, we all have a part to play when it comes to keeping our roads safe. 

‘‘By working together we can reduce the burden of road trauma on our communities.’’ 

This year’s Fatality Free Friday theme is ‘Choose Road Safety’, and an inflatable car has been parked at the Speaker’s Green at Parliament House to remind MPs to spread the message. 

Mr Bailey encouraged people to plan ahead and make the choice to stay safe.  

“If you plan on having a night out, leave the car at home, organise a Plan B in advance by pre-arranging a lift, catching public transport, catching a cab or booking a ride share,’’ he said. 

“Fatality Free Friday asks the community to promise to take extra care on the roads on May 25, but we’re asking everyone to make the choice to drive safely, every day of the year.” 

Australian Road Safety Foundation founder and CEO Russell White said the reality was that more often than not, the tragic loss of life on our roads was because of someone’s choice. 

‘‘People choose to speed, use a mobile phone, drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, to not wear a seatbelt or run a red light,’’ Mr White said. 

‘‘We know drink driving remains one of the major causes of death and serious injuries on Queensland roads. 

‘‘I’d urge all Queenslanders to make the Fatality Free Friday pledge by visiting fatilityfreefriday.com.’’ 

To make a pledge or find a local event near you, visit www.fatalityfreefriday.com  

For more information on road safety, visit www.jointhedrive.qld.gov.au 

Fatality Free Friday Pledge

Join forces to beat road trauma and take the pledge for Fatality Free Friday by promising to:

• Always be fit to drive
• Stay focused on the road
• Scan the road ahead
• Keep a safe distance
• Drive to suit the conditions

ENDS

Media contact: Dominic Geiger, 0447355565