Minister welcomes campaign to cut road toll

A joint project aiming to cut the horrific road toll throughout Queensland has been welcomed by Minister for Transport John Mickel.

Mr Mickel said the Save A Week A Life campaign, jointly supported by the State Government, Queensland Police and the Courier Mail, aimed to raise awareness of road safety.

``There needs to be a whole of community approach to tackling the issue of safety on our roads,’’ he said.

``I welcome the fact positive steps such as this campaign are being made to help address the shocking number of injuries and deaths taking place.

``What is required is a behavioural change among motorists who tend to make excuses about their actions when driving,’’ he said.

Mr Mickel said motorists needed to take responsibility and heed speed restrictions, avoid driving when tired and arrange to take public transport when planning to drink.

``Speeding is not cool and our police are not out there revenue raising when they issue fines to those who are breaking the law – they are potentially saving lives.

``What this campaign aims to bring home is the message that we want people to be safe on the roads . . . one death is one too many.’’

Media contact: Shannon Mackay 3237 1125

January 2, 2008