The NSW Police Force is acknowledging World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims today (Sunday 18 November 2018), as people across the world reflect on the number of lives lost on our roads, NSW Police say.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Julie Middlemiss is marking the day by reminding all road users to take extra care.
"Today is a special advocacy day for road traffic prevention," Acting Assistant Commissioner Middlemiss said.
"1193 lives have been lost on Australian roads in the last 12 months to the end of October, with 384 of those in New South Wales.
"When you consider those directly impacted as well as the emergency services personnel including police, paramedics, fire fighters, emergency volunteers and medical professionals, indirectly affected, these numbers are significant and we all need to do more to minimise the risks to others on our roads.
"I would encourage everyone to pause for a moment and reflect on the grief they have endured.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Middlemiss said whether you are driving, riding, cycling, or walking, you need to ensure the roads are shared safely and responsibly.
"We know speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing a seat belt or proper helmet, driving distracted, or fatigued, are all the key causes of fatal and serious injury crashes on our roads, and personal responsibility is the key in keeping yourself, your passengers, and other road users safe on local roads and highways," Acting Assistant Commissioner Middlemiss said.
"I also take this opportunity to acknowledge the work done by the NSW Police Force, emergency and medical services, and road safety professionals in enforcement, treatment and advocacy, all focussed on driving down the road toll."
World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims is a United Nations initiative that started in 1993 as a global day observed on the third Sunday of November each year.
