The Victorian Government in Australia is urging Victorians to take care on the roads after an increase in road deaths this year.
In just over two months, 54 people have lost their lives on Victorian roads – compared to 44 in 2021. Regional deaths have also increased by 70 percent, with 34 lives lost compared to 20 this time last year.
Historically March has a high fatality period on the roads and the Government is urging all road users to play their part in keeping roads safe.
“Everyone deserves to make it to their destination safely – we can all play our part in turning this tragic start to the year around by slowing down, wearing a seatbelt, avoiding distractions, driving well rested and not driving drunk or on drugs,” said Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ben Carroll.
Road safety authorities have also raised concerns over a rise in pedestrian, motorcyclist, and young driver deaths. Pedestrian and motorcycle deaths are well above the same time last year, and nine young people aged 18-20 have lost their lives – over four times the five-year average.
