Main reasons for horrific road toll in Victoria

Drivers are being warned to stay alert behind the wheel as one state grapples with the loss of 10 people dying in car crashes in November.

Victorians hitting the road over summer are being reminded to stay alert behind the wheel, as the state enters an especially high-risk period for deadly car crashes.

After 11 lives were lost in 11 days between November to December in 2021, Victorian Police have issued the warning to drivers to remain cautious when on the road, as traffic volumes increase in the lead-up to Christmas.

Ten lives have already been lost on Victorian roads since the start of November, bringing the total lives lost to 222 – 24 higher than the same time last year and significantly up on the five-year average.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Road Policing Justin Goldsmith said distraction, including mobile phone use, was the most common underlying factor in collisions.

“Now is not the time to be complacent when getting behind the wheel,” he said.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Road Policing Justin Goldsmith says 11 people died on Victorian roads in 11 days this time last year. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Crosling

“Unfortunately, it was distraction and basic road user errors during this period last year that resulted in the most fatalities, which just shows that a simple lapse in concentration can have catastrophic consequences.

“Slowing down, remaining alert and being extra cautious during periods of wild weather are simple but ultimately lifesaving measures that all motorists can take to protect themselves and other road users.

“Police will be doing everything they can to reduce road trauma during this high-risk period, but we need everyone to do their bit.”

Poor compliance with common road rules, such as failing to give way and failing to keep left, were also contributing factors to fatal collisions during this period.

Victorian drivers can expect to see an increase in police on regional and city roads over the festive season. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Daniel Pockett

More than half of the collisions occurred on regional roads, with one third of collisions involving a driver aged over 65.

Police are ramping up enforcement efforts and will be highly visible on roads throughout December, with a statewide road policing operation to come into effect prior to Christmas.

Alcohol and drug testing will also be in effect as drivers get ready for the festive season.