Harper Sercombe
The Australian Road Safety Foundation is putting the call out to urge drivers to be safe on the roads this Fatality Free Friday.
National Road Safety Week was held in early May and Fatality Free Friday is marked on May 26.
In 2022, 242 people were killed on Victorian roads.
ARSF chief executive and founder Russell White said Fatality Free Friday is just the starting point needed for a change in behaviour when it comes to road safety.
“We need to work together as a nation to create a cultural shift focused on choosing road safety and sharing the roads with one another,” Mr White said.
“Each number you see on the road toll represents a life, someone who was tragically taken away from their loved ones.
“There are simple steps we can take together to create safer roads. Removing distractions when driving and doing a simple gesture, like the thank you wave, can reduce aggression and risky behaviours on our roads.”
This message was reflected by Chelsea Wellman sister of Koby Wellman who was tragically killed on the roads last year.
“It took mere seconds to lose someone we love, we now have to live without him for the rest of our lives,” Ms Wellman said.
“You never think it is going to be you, until it is.
“I want to encourage everyone to choose road safety. Don’t let yourself get distracted, don’t speed, just focus on getting home safely.”
Heading into its 16th year, Fatality Free Friday continues to operate on the belief that going one day without a road death can demonstrate the impact that focusing on road safety can have.
