Queenslanders urged to ‘drive so that others survive’ this national road safety week

Queensland motorists are being urged to slow down and avoid alcohol consumption as Australia marks National Road Safety week.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said speeding and drink driving were the leading causes of fatal crashes on Queensland roads.

“Today, as National Road Safety Week begins, the Queensland road toll tragically stands at 79, 13 more than 2017,” Mr Bailey said.

‘‘In the past month, Queensland Police information indicates more than half of fatal crashes involved alcohol impairment or speeding.

‘‘But too many drivers still choose to ignore warnings on the dangers of speeding and driving under the influence. Speeding and drink driving kill, it’s as simple as that.

“No one is above the law. No one has the right to speed and no one has the right to drink and drive when the result can be devastating and life-changing for so many people.

“You not only run the risk of being caught and fined, you drastically reduce your ability to react to an incident.”

Mr Bailey said the Palaszczuk Government was committed to reducing deaths and serious injury on the roads.

“We sometimes forget the real impact road crashes have on our community, but with more than 1200 Australians killed and 30,000 seriously injured each year, the impact of road trauma on our Australian community is enormous,” Mr Bailey said.

“To remember those who have died in road crashes, iconic landmarks around the nation will light up yellow during National Road Safety Week, including Brisbane’s Story Bridge, Gateway Bridge and Victoria Bridge.”

Mr Bailey will meet with National Road Safety Week founder Peter Frazer tomorrow at Parliament House.

“Mr Frazer initiated National Road Safety Week following the tragic death of his daughter Sarah in 2012,” Mr Bailey said.

“Since Sarah’s death, Peter has set himself the challenge to raise awareness to ensure no other family has to endure the heartache and trauma his family has.

“Sarah’s car broke down by the side of the Hume Highway, in NSW, and there wasn’t enough room for her car to be safely off the road. Tragically, both Sarah and the NRMA officer assisting her were killed by a passing truck.

“National Road Safety Week is an initiative of the Safer Australian Roads and Highways (SARAH) group which Mr Frazer established.”

The week aims to improve road safety nationally by raising awareness and asking people to “drive so others survive” (or #DriveSOS).

“I urge all Queensland motorists to slow down and give emergency crews, road workers, roadside assistance personnel and anyone working in the road environment plenty of space.”

Mr Frazer had channelled the grief of losing Sarah to educate the community about road safety.

“Despite our sadness, despite our grief, we decided we had to challenge both government and community attitudes, for vulnerable road users must never be placed in harm’s way,” Mr Frazer said.

“As Sarah’s favourite colour was yellow, and it represented life and hope to her, we use yellow ribbons for our work. We are proud that it has now been adopted as a national symbol for road safety.”

Mr Bailey said the state government supported National Road Safety Week initiatives, with planning already underway for Queensland’s own Road Safety Week, in August.

“Road safety is on the national agenda, with all states working toward lowering deaths and serious injury,” he said.

“If we drive safely and look out for each other, we can help make Queensland roads safer for everyone.”

For more information about National Road Safety Week visit http://www.roadsafetyweek.org.au/

ENDS

Media contact:        Dominic Geiger, 0447355565