MOTORISTS are being urged to refresh their knowledge of road rules and do their part to save lives during Queensland’s Road Safety Week.
Redlands MP Kim Richards said events were taking place across Queensland from August 27.
“In Queensland last year, 247 people were tragically killed and 6450 people were hospitalised – many with life-altering injuries,” Ms Richards said.
“Road crashes are preventable, and this week is an ideal opportunity to reflect on raising the community’s commitment to making our roads safer for everyone.
“Road rules are in place for a reason – do the right thing and speak up for road safety.”
Road safety is the focus of the Coffee with a Cop event at Cleveland on Tuesday, August 28.
Transport Minister Mark Bailey issued an urgent appeal to motorists to consider the risks of unsafe driving every time they got behind a wheel.
His plea came as the road toll reached 14 more than the same time last year, with 166 lives lost.
“Last year, distraction, drink driving and riding, fatigue, speeding and not wearing a seatbelt were a factor in 56% of road deaths,” Mr Bailey said.
“These, more than any other road deaths, are preventable and unnecessary.
“It is a devastating fact that road trauma has become one of the biggest public health issues facing our community.”
Queensland Road Safety Week is a joint initiative of the Department of Transport and Main Roads and Queensland Police Service with RACQ and CARRS-Q.
For information on Road Safety Week visit jointhedrive.qld.gov.au/road-safety-week or facebook.com/JoinTheDrive
