Massive spike in road toll adds up to one of blackest days in memory

Transport Minister John Mickel has appealed to Queensland motorists to be vigilant at all times when driving after a horrific 24 hours on the roads which has left seven people dead.

Mr Mickel said seven deaths in 24 hours marked one of the blackest days in memory on Queensland’s roads.

“This terrible spike in the road toll, coming especially as it has on a weekday, highlights the need for motorists to take care each and every time they drive their motor vehicles.

“Typically, the road toll and the need for caution receives greater attention during holiday periods such as the Christmas and New Year, and at Easter and over long weekends.

“However, as the last 24 hours has so tragically demonstrated, the need for vigilance is there all the time.

“When people turn on the ignition of their vehicle they need to turn on their attention span, and keep it turned on for the whole time they are driving – not some of the time, but the whole time.

“It is when people’s attention goes out the window, such as when they get tired or distracted, that they and other road users are in the greatest danger.

“Likewise, when people turn on the ignition, they need to turn on their commitment to driving safely, and keep it turned on for the whole time they are driving – not some of the time, but the whole time.

“It’s is when people take risks and break the road rules, such as when they speed or attempt a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre, that they and other road users are in the greatest danger.”

Mr Mickel said motorists especially needed to take care and observe speed limits around roadworks, as these were areas where unexpected traffic stoppages could occur.

“The death of the two teenage girls at a roadworks site on the Sunshine Coast highlights the absolute importance of all motorists paying close attention and observing any changes in traffic conditions and speed limits.

“Roadworks are a common sight on many Queensland roads at the moment, so staying alert and adhering to the speed limit will help avoid crash situations arising,” Mr Mickel said.

“Drivers need to constantly remind themselves that being in a hurry or trying to get somewhere on time can never be allowed to become a reason to take risks or break the road rules.

“Negotiating sharp turns and bends at safe speeds is another simple road action that could potentially save a life, and this was again evident in one of the fatal crashes yesterday,” Mr Mickel said.

“Driving without due care and attention might not sound a terribly serious thing to do, but when that lack of attention results in someone being killed or seriously injured, then plainly it has terribly serious consequences.

“The standout statistic of the road toll is that an estimated 95 per cent of fatalities are the result of preventable human error.

“The responsibility rests with each and every one of us to observe the road rules and drive safely,” Mr Mickel said.

For more information on Queensland road rules and safe driving behaviours, visit www.transport.qld.gov.au.

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