‘These people are not just numbers’: Public safety message urges caution this Road Safety Week

This National Road Safety Week, Territorians are urged to drive like our lives are worth living and make our roads safer for all.

This Road Safety Week, Territorians are being urged to drive like their lives are worth living and make the roads safer for all.

National Road Safety Week runs from Sunday May 11 to Sunday May 18.

Infrastructure and Logistics Department director of road safety Brett Clifford said the initiative provided an opportunity to shine a light on road safety.

“We know every serious road crash has ongoing and devastating effects for our families and communities. Sadly this year, 11 people have lost their lives on our roads,” he said.

“These people are not just numbers; they are family members, friends, colleagues and neighbours, and their tragic loss of life is felt by many.

“Our message to Territorians is simple – drive like your lives are worth living.”

The fatality rate on NT roads is four times the national average.

The Northern Territory government called on Territorians to change this statistic by avoiding the fatal five: speeding, driving under the influence, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction.

The department’s road safety team and Hector the Road Safety Cat will participate in community-led events across the Territory.

National Road Safety Week asks the public to honour those lost on the road and take the pledge to “Drive So Others Survive”, displaying or wearing a yellow ribbon, and taking the opportunity to have conversations about positive and safe road culture with family and friends.