250 dead on Queensland roads as severe weather ramps up
Queensland has hit a tragic milestone, with 250 people losing their lives on our roads already this year, just as the severe weather season begins, making driving conditions even more hazardous.
RACQ’s Head of Public Policy Dr Michael Kane described the situation as dire, warning Queensland is now on track for its deadliest year on the roads since 2009.
“We’re staring down the barrel of a 16-year record no one wants to break,” Dr Kane said.
“With more wild weather forecast in the coming months and the silly season right around the corner, the risks on our roads are mounting fast.
“We need drivers to take road safety seriously – heed the warnings, obey laws and drive to the conditions to keep you and your loved ones safe.”
RACQ’s forward modelling paints an even grimmer picture; if current trends continue, more than 400 lives could be lost on Queensland roads yearly by 2032.
“Our research shows that Queenslanders want our state to be portrayed as ‘Safe’ for the Olympic and Paralympic Games above anything else – yet our roads are on track to being some of the deadliest in the country by 2032,” Dr Kane said.
“In 2019, we recorded our lowest road toll for decades – 220 deaths; we were heading in the right direction, but since COVID that trend has reversed dramatically.
“Had the pre-COVID trend continued, Queensland would have been on track for 150 road deaths per year by 2032, far from the 400 now projected.
“Every life lost is someone’s friend or family member – we need urgent action from government, from communities, and from every road user to curb our dangerous driving culture. Enough is enough.”
As part of its ‘Get Serious on Road Safety’ campaign, RACQ has outlined a clear roadmap of reforms.
“We know enforcement works; when people believe they’ll get caught, they’re more likely to do the right thing,” Dr Kane said.
“That’s why we’re calling for more visible police presence on the roads, increased random drug and alcohol testing, and tougher vehicle impoundment for repeat offenders.”
Dr Kane said RACQ was also pushing for more point-to-point speed cameras, stronger enforcement of existing laws and for every driver and rider to take extra care on our roads.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility – it’s especially important to drive to the conditions at this time of year,” he said.
“Ensure you have good tyre tread depth, working headlights and wipers, and stay off the roads when a storm or severe weather system is having an impact.”
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