Road Safety Advisory Council Chair Garry Bailey today congratulated drivers for a fatalityfree festive season.
“It’s the third time in 10 years we’ve had a fatality-free Christmas/New Year; the other two were 2016-17 and 2017-18,” Mr Bailey said.
“There’s been an average of two fatalities each Christmas-New Year break for the 10 years to January 1 2020. Last year was the worst in at least 20 years when there were five fatalities.
“The Road Safety Advisory Council’s goal of zero serious road crash fatalities can only be achieved if everyone drives responsibly. And that means complying with the road rules. Each traffic infringement is for a behaviour that could’ve caused a fatal or serious-injury crash.
“I commend the Police for their work with Operation Crossroads – from midnight on 21 December to midnight 1 January – to help get everyone home safely.
“But the more than 700 drivers caught exceeding the speed limit, the 91 charged with drink driving and 86 who tested positive for illicit drugs put their lives and those of others in danger.
“The emotional pain and loss for the families and loved ones of people killed and injured on our roads lasts a lifetime. Last year’s road toll of 33 – one more than last year – and the 252 serious injuries, down from 281 in 2018 – are unacceptable.
“Together, we can help reduce that terrible toll by driving safely. The festive season has given us a good start to the year. Let’s continue it.”
As part of our Towards Zero Action Plan 2020-2024, the Tasmanian Government will invest $75 million to help save lives on our roads over the next five years.