Victoria Police is issuing a critical road safety alert as the state enters an especially high-risk period for death and serious injury.
Eighteen lives were lost in just two weeks at the same time last year and police are concerned about a repeat, especially as winter weather reduces visibility and creates hazardous driving conditions.
The alert comes as five lives were lost on Victorian roads in the last 48 hours, with fatal collisions in Buxton, Thornhill Park, Bundoora, Geelong and Flynn.
It brings the state’s total lives lost to 114 – 19 higher than the same time last year.
Their plea follows a statewide road policing operation over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend which detected more than 5000 traffic offences.
Police will remain highly visible across the state’s roads as the school holiday period kicks off next week.
Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said we are entering a high-risk period on Victorian roads.
“Now is not the time to be complacent when getting behind the wheel,” he said.
“Slowing down, remaining alert and being extra cautious when roads are wet or visibility is affected are simple, but life-saving measures all motorists can take to protect themselves and other road users.
“Police will remain highly visible and on the lookout for any risky driver behaviour. We are determined to do everything we can to ensure this period does not become synonymous with road trauma”
