Governments doing their part to improve the road network, NTC says, but motorists need to take personal responsibility as well
December 5, 2012
The National Transport Commission (NTC) is calling on all Australians to abolish the road toll this festive season by using the roads responsibly.
NTC CEO Nick Dimopoulos says death and injury on the roads should not be accepted during the Christmas and New Year break.
In an average week, 26 people are killed and over 600 are seriously injured across Australia. Dimopoulos says none of the deaths and injuries are unavoidable.
“Governments are investing in upgrading roads and manufacturers are producing safer vehicles. Drivers, motorcyclists, pedestrians and cyclists also need to play their part in avoiding tragedy on our roads,” he says.
“While Christmas is an occasion to celebrate and spend time with loved ones, it can sadly be ruined by speed, fatigue and drivers under the influence of drugs and alcohol.”
Dimopoulos says motorists should check the condition of their vehicles before travelling, take regular rest breaks to avoid fatigue, follow the speed limit and do not use mobile phones while driving.
He says motorists need to ensure they can see enough of the road ahead before they pass heavy vehicles.
