Police issue an urgent plea as the pedestrian death toll rises on Victorian roads

Distracted pedestrians on regional roads are risking serious injury or death this winter as police reveal frightening figures.

Police have issued an urgent plea to road users after pedestrian deaths have more than doubled since this time last year.

This year in Victoria 16 pedestrians have died compared to 6 this time last year - a 167 per cent increase.

Of the fatalities, four occurred in regional areas.

A 68-year-old was killed north of Shepparton after he was struck by a car in Strathmerton, October 13.

It is believed he was walking along Numurkah Rd, near Reynoldsons Rd, when he was hit by a car about 9.40pm.

Even if a pedestrian survives a collision, the risk of serious injury is higher than other road users with police analysis showing more than 1200 pedestrians were injured last year.

It comes after a 19-year-old received serious head injuries in Moe while another man was critically injured in Mildura when crossing the street.

Victorian Police said distraction was a factor in pedestrian road deaths as people were not aware of their surroundings when wearing headphones or using a mobile device.

Assistant commissioner for road policing Glenn Weir said the rising death toll could continue into the winter months.

“We’re concerned this trend will continue as we head into the winter months when it gets darker earlier and visibility is reduced,” he said.

Minister roads and safety Ben Carroll urged all road users to “expect the unexpected”.

“Every life lost on our road is one too many, and every road accident is preventable - we all have a role to play in keeping each other safe whether on foot, two wheels or behind the wheel of a car,” he said.

“We urge drivers, riders and pedestrians to share the road safely - expect the unexpected, ensure others can see you, and avoid distractions like your phone.”

The state government said road safety partners were working to create safer roads and protect the most vulnerable users.

The Bass Coast Shire Council announced a raised pedestrian walk in Inverloch would be completed in mid-June to improve safety for pedestrians including schoolchildren.

“This is a really significant project for Inverloch, because it will be the first raised pedestrian crossing to be installed in Bass Coast,” Michael Whelan said.

“Once installed, it’s important to remember that drivers will be required to give way to pedestrians and bike riders using the crossing, at all times.”