This time of year is a busy one on our roads and as we wind down it is important we remember to stay safe. This is a simple message, but unfortunately it is one that is often lost.
The latest Queensland Road Crash Weekly Report has stated that during the period of 1 January 2024 to 15 December 2024, on average there has been an increase in fatalities as a result of vehicle crashes in Queensland. This year has seen the highest number of fatalities, compared to the previous five years.
"The latest statistics are sobering and reminds us that road safety should be at the forefront of our mind whenever we enter a vehicle. There is no room for complacency as every crash is preventable," Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Geoff McDonald said.
It is a common misconception that this type of tragedy won't affect you or your loved ones, however the fact is that accidents aren't discriminatory.
"We all have an ethical responsibility to ensure we are as safe as possible when using our roads, to safeguard ourselves and others," Mayor McDonald said.
There are a few measures drivers can take to ensure their safety.
This includes not committing the Queensland Government's Fatal Five; speeding, drink driving, not using seatbelts and driving distracted or tired.
"The most important thing to remember is before you make any decisions on the road you must ask yourself, 'is it worth it?'. No family ever wants to be touched by the tragedy of a fatal crash. I'm urging you, please don't do that to your family during this holiday season," Mayor McDonald said.
He also said it was important we remember those dedicated to keeping our community safe.
"Thank you to all our police officers, emergency services and first responders. Your work is incredibly difficult but vital in ensuring we have the best outcomes for those involved in road incidents", said Mayor McDonald.
The amount of people travelling during the Christmas holiday period is due to increase which reinforces the importance of following our road safety laws to minimise the road trauma across our Region.
During this busy season, it may prove helpful to remember these Queensland Government Street Smarts campaign slogans:
- Speeding? You're no hero.
- You lapse, you lose.
- Seatbelts every time.
- Take a break every two hours
- Phone down. Chin up.
Toowoomba Regional Council is implementing its Toowoomba Region Road Safety Strategy 2024-2028.
This initiative is a commitment towards providing a road network increasingly free from fatal or serious injury vehicle crashes, consistent with the national and State road safety objective 'Vision Zero', meaning zero deaths and serious injuries on the Region's roads. This vision will be undertaken by, influencing responsible driver and other road users' behaviours through infrastructure, maintaining the Region's road network, supporting and advocating for road safety and enhancing safety and accessibility for all road users. These objectives and subsequent actions are tailored to the Toowoomba Region based on recorded crash data which has formed this proactive safety strategy.
If you are involved in any road incidents, please contact police by telephoning Policelink on 131 444.
