Experts warn about road safety ahead of Fatality Free Friday

New data has revealed shocking behaviour by Queensland drivers and pedestrians to coincide with this year’s Fatality Free Friday.

Veteran truck driver Rod Hannifey

This year’s Fatality Free Friday has been backed by National Heavy Vehicle Regulator in hopes of raising safety awareness for the aim of no fatalities on Australian roads on May 31.

Data released by the Australian Road Safety Foundation showed 56 per cent of Queenslanders admitted to breaking road rules, while 48 per cent of Queensland pedestrians admitted to being distracted through use of phones, headphones and blindly following the crowd.

The day comes after 1270 people lost their lives on Australian roads in 2023, the Australian Road Safety Foundation’s have reiterated a critical reminder for all road users to take extra care to reduce road trauma is also focused on long-term community change.

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM said a single road fatality was one too many, and taking extra care on the roads to ensure all drivers and passengers make it home safely was everyone’s responsibility.

“Whether you are driving a truck, bus, motorcycle or car, making safety your top priority when travelling to your destination is essential,” Mr Petroccitto said.

“Ensure you are well-rested, stay focused on the road and free of distractions, and always keep a safe distance from other vehicles.

Ms Petroccitto said they know that 70 per cent of serious incidents involving a heavy vehicle are due to an error by the light vehicle driver, so we would urge motorists to take extra care when travelling around trucks.

“Importantly, always stay mindful of blind spots and give heavy vehicles plenty of space.”

Veteran truck driver and safety advocate Rod Hannifey has clocked more than six million kilometres on the road, and said Fatality Free Friday was a crucial reminder to not take unnecessary risks while driving.

“I ask you to think about what you’re doing on the road, and act as though every other vehicle you’re sharing the road with has a member of your family in it,” Mr Hannifey said.

“Think about those you’re sharing the road with, and get home safely to your family every single day.”

ARSF Founder and Chief Executive Officer Russell White said the research reiterated that a future free from road fatalities could only be achieved if people acknowledged their role within the bigger picture.

“At the end of the day, the fatal five – speeding, driving inhibited, driving fatigued, not wearing a seat belt and being distracted – are choices that an individual makes,” Mr White said.

“The majority of our road crashes are the result of unsafe choices so we need all Queenslanders to take responsibility, put safety first and help us save thousands of families from the heartache of road trauma,”

“Fatality Free Friday works to tackle the big picture vision of a Queensland where not one person has their life cut short because of a preventable road crash.”