Road toll soars as motorists warned to take extra care now school’s back

The road safety warning follows not only the return of school but also a spate of crashes over the long weekend and news the road toll had risen to 84 lives lost.

As students returned to the classroom this week RACQ has reminded drivers to take extra care on the roads, with reduced speed zones in place.

RACQ spokeswoman Clare Hunter said 40 kmh speed limits now applied on school days.

“Children don’t have the same spatial awareness as adults and learning about how to safely cross the road takes time to learn so it is up to motorists to remain vigilant and prepare for anything when entering these zones,” Ms Hunter said.

“School drop off and pick up can be extremely busy and at times frantic, so we’re pleading with everyone to do all they can to avoid more tragedy on our roads.”

Ms Hunter said the road safety warning came following a spate of motorcyclist crashes across Queensland over the long weekend and news the road toll had risen to 84 lives lost.

“RACQ LifeFlight crews airlifted three motorbike riders in a 24-hour period and given 25 motorbike riders have been lost in road crashes this year, we’re extremely concerned,” she said.

“Road crashes are claiming lives at an alarming rate, with 84 lives lost since January, well above the 59 killed last year, something has got to change.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility.

“So whether you’re behind the wheel or handle bars we’re asking you to stick to the speed limit, wear the appropriate safety gear, buckle up and don’t hit the road fatigued, distracted or under the influence.”