Drew Blair’s death sparks rural road safety pledge for NT drivers

Drew Blair was just 22 when he died on a rural Northern Territory road. Now his family want to share a message to ensure no one else experiences the pain they did.

Natalie Sonenko can’t fight back the tears when she talks about her son Drew Blair.

The 22-year-old died after a single vehicle rollover on a rural road in February.

Months later she still breaks down when describing the turmoil over his death.

“The pain and anguish that I go through everyday is horrible,” she said.

“He was my world.”

Mr Blair is one of the 52 lives lost on Territory roads this year.

In 2021 it was 35.

Drew Blair died in a single vehicle rollover at Point Stuart in February 2022.

Ms Sonenko said finding out her son had died was the worst moment of her life.

“My world crumbled that Friday night,” she said.

“I ask myself questions all the time — you know how could I have prevented it.

“I would change places in an instant.”

Mr Blair was killed on February 17 after he left the Bark Hut.

“He went around a bend and didn't realise there was water on the road,” Ms Sonenko said.

“He lost control and was thrown from the car because he wasn’t wearing a seatbelt.”

He was found by a passing motorist shortly after midnight.

Ms Sonenko is now advocating for road safety on rural roads, with September the month dedicated to the Australian Road Safety initiative.

Drew Blair died in a single vehicle rollover at Point Stuart in February 2022.

“I took my pledge for road safety and that’s what I want everyone to do,” she said.

“If my story can help prevent one family from going through this pain and heartbreak then Drew’s death won’t be in vain.”

Her advice to everyone who uses the road is very simple.

“Don’t be complacent, wear your seatbelt.

“Follow the road rules they’re there for a reason,” she said.

“You never know what can happen, in a split-second life can change.”

She wants Drew to be remembered as a kind, fun-loving soul and not just a statistic of the road toll.

“He had so much to look forward in life — He was such a polite loving, kind-hearted person and his infectious laugh would draw people in,” she said.

“It was clear to see with all the people that attended his funeral.”