Winter Warning for Regional Victorians: Think Safety First

17 May 2012

MEDIA RELEASE: 17 May 2012

With winter fast approaching the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) has sent a safety warning to all Victorians, particularly those in regional areas, to slow down and take extra care on the roads. 

Year to date, 55 people have been killed on regional and rural roads compared to 60 at the same time last year and the five year average of 62.

Despite the reduction, the TAC has urged regional drivers and riders not to be complacent and to think safety first during the winter months.

Acting CEO of the TAC, Tracey Slatter, said there were a number of steps motorists could take to stay safe during winter.

"In wet and windy weather, slowing down and driving or riding to the conditions are key safety tips to remember," Ms Slatter said.

Ensuring your tyres are in good condition, braking gently, turning your lights on and reducing your speed if there is fog or mist around were also offered as advice for winter motorists.

"Every death and serious injury on our roads is preventable and by taking a few simple precautions you could potentially save your life," Ms Slatter said.

Regional road deaths make up almost 48 per cent of the state's road toll, which remains one below the same time last year – 113 fatalities compared to 114.

TAC statistics show that the location of regional fatalities is spread across the state; however Greater Geelong, LaTrobe, East Gippsland and Swan Hill local government areas lead the fatality rates with four deaths in each of those regions this year so far.

The breakdown of road users in regional fatalities shows that 31 drivers have been killed, 11 motorcyclists, seven passengers, three pedestrians and three cyclists.

Forty-one men and 14 women have been killed on regional roads, with 16 road users killed aged 18-29 and 15 aged 50-69.

Ms Slatter said there was a common misconception amongst rural Victorians that city-based drivers were involved in most collisions on rural roads.

"In reality, that is not the case - country people die on country roads, with about 60 per cent of regional road fatalities involving regional residents," she said.

"Our message is that regardless of where you live or where you're driving, stay within the speed limit and drive to the conditions."

For more information, contact Sarah Henderson on 0429 294 262