National Road Safety Week, which kicks off today and runs until May 21, will highlight the tragic impact of road trauma and ways we can all work to reduce it.
The week is annual initiative of the Safer Australian Roads and Highways (SARAH) Group launched by Peter Frazer OAM, following the tragic loss of his daughter Sarah at a road crash in Sydney's south in 2012.
Each year they ask NSW road users to take the pledge to 'Drive so others survive'.
The Sydney Harbour Bridge and landmarks across the state will light up yellow tonight as NSW shows its support for National Road Safety Week.
NSW Roads Minister John Graham said
"This National Road Safety Week, we remember all those who have lost their lives on our roads, and their families left behind."
"Tragically, 291 people were killed in crashes on NSW roads last year and 1187 nationwide. These are not just numbers, they are family, friends and loved ones who did not return home."
"From tonight, we'll be lighting up landmarks such as The Sydney Harbour Bridge, Central Station Grand Concourse, and CommBank Stadium to raise awareness of the devastating impacts of road trauma on our community."
"Please drive under the speed limit, wear your seatbelt, put your phone away and never drive if you're tired or affected by drugs and alcohol."
NSW Regional Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said
"The safety message extends to regional NSW which is particularly important with deaths on NSW country roads making up 67 per cent of our state road toll."
"There will be community events held across regional NSW as well as local landmarks being lit up for the week including the Big Merino in Goulburn and Kiama Lighthouse."
"Any death on our roads is one too many which is why we are committed to our goal of reducing road trauma to zero in NSW."
"Communities around the state will be supporting the week by taking the pledge, wearing a yellow ribbon and promoting road safety messages at council chambers, coffee with a cop events, and even a local rugby game on the Mid North Coast."
President of the SARAH Group Peter Frazer said
"I'm asking every driver and rider to make their own commitment to actively protect the lives of all those on the road ahead."
"You can start by going to roadsafetyweek.com.au and taking the pledge, and then ask your family, friends and colleagues to do the same."
"Everyone has a right to get home safe to their loved ones, every day, no exceptions."
