The Queensland Police Service today announced the preliminary road toll for 2016 was 250 fatalities, seven more than in 2015., Queensland Police say
Commissioner Ian Stewart said while 2016’s road toll was slightly lower than the previous five-year average of 257, it was still far too high.
"Every one of these lives lost on our roads represents a grieving circle of family and friends," Commissioner Stewart said.
"The high number of road fatalities most not be accepted by the community."
Commissioner Stewart said there had been an alarming increase from the previous year in the number of fatalities in two road user categories.
"In 2016, we saw pedestrian fatalities rise by more than 75 per cent and fatalities involving motorcycle riders and passengers increase by 19 per cent," Commissioner Stewart said.
"We need every single road user whether they are a driver, a rider, a cyclist or a pedestrian to take road safety seriously and act responsibly on our roads."
Road Policing Command Assistant Commissioner Mike Keating said a full analysis of the contributing causes of fatal traffic crashes in 2016 would be conducted.
"There is no doubt Fatal Five offences such as speeding, drink and drug driving and fatigue contributed to a significant number of fatalities on Queensland roads last year," Assistant Commissioner Keating said.
"The tragic reality is that many of the fatal traffic crashes in 2016 could have been avoided if the driver or rider was not speeding, had not been drinking or was simply paying attention to the road.
"In 2017, the QPS will continue to enhance and expand its traffic enforcement capability and road safety initiatives across Queensland."
Anyone with information which could assist with this matter should contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.
