WA is on track to record one of the worst years for road deaths in a decade, following a surge in fatalities in the first six months of 2024.
So far this year, 102 people have tragically lost their lives on our roads, 19 more than at the same time in 2023.
Statistics for the first half of 2024 have also revealed a spike in motorcycle fatalities, with 27 deaths – the highest in recent years and already more than the entirety of 2020.
RAC General Manager External Relations Will Golsby said complacency around road safety is costing lives.
“These are real people, whose lives have been tragically cut short, with families and friends who are mourning the sudden and shocking loss of a loved one,” Mr Golsby said.
“Our attitudes around road safety need to change – too many people are still making poor decisions behind the wheel. We all share a responsibility to keep our roads safe.”
“Whether you’re driving, riding or walking, it’s crucial to focus on one thing only – arriving to your destination safely.”
The number of pedestrians to die on WA roads is also at a five-year high, with 10 people losing their lives since January.
“The number of people who continue to die or suffer life-changing injuries on our roads is shocking and unacceptable,” Mr Golsby said.
Deaths on our regional roads are also back on the rise this year – already 59 people haven’t returned home. That’s a 48 per cent increase, in just one year.
WA’s regional roads are some of the most dangerous to drive on, anywhere in the country.
“As a state, we’ve gone from being the best in the class to one of the worst,” Mr Golsby said.
“Someone is killed or seriously injured on WA roads every five hours.”
“We’re continuing to call on governments to prioritise investments to upgrade and maintain WA’s metro and regional roads – as a matter of urgency.”
ENDS
Media contact: Laura Gardiner, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
