17 people have lost their lives on Tasmania’s roads so far in 2024, a decrease from 19 at the same point last year.
The road toll increased overnight following the death of a young man who crashed into a tree on Lalla Road in the state’s north-east.
The 20-year-old sustained serious injuries in the crash at around 9:40 pm on Thursday and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Inspector Nick Clark said initial investigations suggest the man had been in the Lilydale area and was driving to his home in Karoola.
He said it was too early in the investigation to determine whether weather conditions, drugs or alcohol were contributing factors.
“The crash investigation is only in its infancy, so I don’t want to comment on a cause at this stage,” he said.
“The crash was driven across by other members of the community who contacted emergency services.”
“I know he was a local resident and I’m assuming he would have driven on that road numerous times.”
Police are appealing to anyone who may have seen a silver Nissan Navara in the Lilydale Pool area to contact them on 131 444.
“Police are stressing to everyone at this time of the year, it’s still winter, the roads are still treacherous, it’s dark, it’s rainy, so take care on the roads and drive to the conditions,” he said.
In addition to fatalities, there have been 182 serious injuries and 199 serious casualties on Tasmanian roads this year.
At the same time last year, the state had recorded 196 serious injuries and a total of 215 serious casualties.
