Victorians are being urged to prioritise road safety following six deaths less than a week into the winter school holiday period.
The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) has issued the plea and is urging motorists to remain vigilant as the winter months can bring unpredictable road conditions, including black ice, fog, rain, and landslides.
The latest fatalities bring the number of deaths to 154 on the state’s roads this year.
TAC acting CEO, Tony Dudley, said 2023 had been a “tragic year” on Victoria’s roads and urged drivers to put safety first.
“These school holidays and beyond, we encourage motorists to stay alert, and plan their journeys ahead of time – in bad weather or unfamiliar surroundings, sticking to main roads and highways can be a safe option,” he said.
“It’s always best to try and avoid driving in severe weather but, if we find ourselves in difficult conditions, it is safest to slow down, be patient, be visible and look out for others on the roads.”
The TAC advises motorists to use their headlights in low light and be vigilant of other road users – while cyclists and pedestrians are encouraged to be visible through safe road positioning, wearing bright or reflective clothing when riding, and always crossing at the safest point.
Drivers are also encouraged to regularly inspect tires, breaks, lights, and wipers, and consider snow tires or chains for enhanced grip on slippery surfaces.
