No time for complacency as Queensland records its lowest road fatalities

Published Wednesday, 01 January, 2020 at 12:30 PM

Acting Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Mark Ryan

Queensland has recorded its lowest number of fatalities on its roads in more than six decades.

Preliminary figures show there were 28 fewer deaths in 2019 than the year prior, marking the lowest number for a calendar year in Queensland since accurate records began in 1952.

Minister for Police and Acting Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Ryan said the 217 figure was still too high, and urged drivers not to become complacent as the state enters a new decade.

“One life lost on our roads is one too many,” Mr Ryan said.

“All Queensland drivers need to remember to avoid the Fatal Five: speeding, drink driving, fatigue, distractions and not wearing a seatbelt.

“The Palaszczuk Government is investing close to $1 billion to dedicated road safety initiatives, but everyone has a role to play in keeping our roads safe.”

Mr Ryan said tough new penalties for distracted drivers will take effect from February, with $1,000 fines and four demerit points for those caught using their mobile phones while driving. 

“While we’re seeing a downward trend in the number of deaths on our roads, last year’s fatalities mean 200 plus families won’t have a loved one at the dinner table in 2020,” he said.

“Add to this more than 6,500 people have been seriously injured – many whose lives will be changed forever.

“Remember every choice you make on the road can affect not only you, and your passengers, but other Queenslanders as well.”

For more information on how you can stay safe while driving visit streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au

ENDS


Media contact:
Lisa Colvin - 0447 106 253