South Australia Police (SAPOL) will be monitoring drivers for the Fatal Five in Operation Safe Holidays, from Friday 12 December 2025 to Thursday 1 January 2026.
With the busy holiday season upon us, SAPOL are imploring the community to prioritise road safety and end the year well.
State Operations Service Assistant Commissioner Ian Parrott reminds drivers that the high-risk behaviours of the Fatal Five contribute heavily to death and serious injuries on our roads.
"Drivers must remember that their choices and actions have significant consequences for themselves and those travelling with them," Assistant Commissioner Parrott said.
"Consciously choosing to avoid the Fatal Five will help you and your loved ones get to your destination and back again, safely.
"Our Christmas wish is for all road users to make road safety their absolute top priority."
So far on South Australian roads in 2025 there have been 82 fatalities – 29 on metropolitan roads, and 53 on regional roads.
There have been 627 crashes resulting in 701 serious injuries, changing the lives of these drivers and passengers.
No matter where you're driving this Christmas period, remember:
- Don't drink and/or drug drive
- Monitor speed and stay within the limits
- Avoid distractions in the car, especially mobile phones
- Always wear a seatbelt
- Respect all the road rules and be patience
- If you're driving for more than two hours, be sure to take regular breaks.
Last year, on Christmas Day alone there were four serious crashes. Police and emergency services attended two serious crashes where people sustained critical and life-threatening injuries.
"We don't want any statistics to rise over the holiday season and are pleading with drivers to take road safety seriously over the Christmas and New Year holiday season," Assistant Commissioner Parrott said.
"Road safety should be a priority for anyone getting behind the wheel.
"For those having some celebratory drinks, arrange a ride home and watch when you're crossing the road as pedestrians are particularly vulnerable."
Happy holidays from everyone at South Australia Police.
For more safety information visit www.police.sa.gov.au/road-safety
