After a surge in fatal crashes, with four deaths on Tasmanian roads in the last week alone, authorities are urging motorists to slow down.
Acting Inspector Justin Lawson, the State Road Safety Coordinator for Tasmania Police, said that over 3,000 people have been seriously injured or killed in crashes in the last decade.
“These numbers mean that on average, 35 Tasmanians are dying from road trauma each year,” he said.
“26 people have lost their lives on Tasmanian roads this year … [and] sadly, another four people have died in the past week alone.”
According to police data, 25 people had died on the state’s roads by this time last year.
Lawson said that inattention, speeding, alcohol consumption, fatigue and distracted driving were the most common contributors to fatal and serious crashes.
“The devastating consequences of fatal and serious motor vehicle crashes extend beyond the immediate physical injuries,” he said.
“They ripple through families, friends and communities, leaving long-lasting emotional and psychological scars.”
“Each incident represents a life altered, a family heartbroken and a community left counting the cost.”
“We implore drivers not to become a statistic. We all have a choice when we get behind the wheel and we call upon all Tasmanians to join us in making our roads safer.”
