Shocking carnage on regionals roads

Queensland’s regional road toll continues to climb at an unacceptable rate with two more deaths this weekend, Police Minister Judy Spence said today.

A motorcycle rider died near Beerwah early yesterday morning and a man died in a single vehicle crash near Kingaroy last night to bring the road toll outside the Metropolitan North and South police regions to 92 this year.

“That is 13 more people killed in regional areas compared to this time last year,” Ms Spence said.

“Police statistics show that speed and inattention have been the two major contributing factors in fatalities on regional roads so far this year.

“Drink driving and driver inexperience have also contributed to a number of deaths.

“Drivers need to slow down and pay more attention on regional roads to help reduce Queensland’s road toll,” Ms Spence said.

Queensland Police Service Acting Chief Superintendent Paul Lostroh said drivers should take care on regional roads, especially when they’re driving long distances.

“Drivers should always adhere to the fatal four, don’t speed, don’t drink and drive, always wear a seat belt and never drive when you are tired,” Acting Chief Superintendent Lostroh said.

“Police are very concerned the number of deaths on regional roads is far exceeding the figure for last year,” he said.

Ms Spence said the government is doing everything it can to reduce the number of deaths on Queensland roads but drivers need to take more responsibility.

“We are increasing the penalties for drivers who break the law but drivers need to modify their driving behaviour to stay safe on regional roads,” Ms Spence said.

Media Contact: Troy Davies: 0439 673 287

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