Road crashes sadly remain a leading cause of death and serious injury, and today Tasmanians are being encouraged to take the Road Safety Pledge as part of National Road Safety Week.
Now in its 11th year, the week is the initiative of the Safer Roads and Highways (SARAH) Group and aims to remember and honour those who have lost their lives on our roads, and educate the public on reducing avoidable deaths and injuries.
Each year more than 1,200 people die on Australian roads and more than 40,000 are seriously injured.
In Tasmania last year 36 people were killed on our roads and more than 300 seriously injured.
The Minister for Transport, Eric Abetz, said we all have a part to play in addressing this issue.
"Sadly, there are too many young people included in these statistics – even though they make up only 11 per cent of the Tasmanian population, 16 to 25-year-olds account for 21 per cent of all deaths and serious injuries on our roads.
"As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, the re-elected Liberal Government is delivering a nation-leading, comprehensive driver education program in every Tasmanian school from Grade 9 to 12.
"We'll be delivering this education program in partnership with the RACT and the Road Safety Advisory Council with an investment of $8 million over five years.
"I urge all Tasmanians to not only take the Road Safety Pledge but to read and reflect on the wording, found at roadsafetyweek.com.au.
"It urges us to drive as if our loved ones are on the road ahead, to remove all distractions, to not drive while tired or under the influence of alcohol or drugs and to protect all vulnerable road users."
Tasmania is hosting National Road Safety Week this year between 5-12 May, with information on Tasmanian activities available at rsac.tas.gov.au.
Tasmanians can also show their support National Road Safety Week by wearing a yellow ribbon. Ribbons can be found at Service Tasmania and RACT outlets around the State; landmarks around the country will also be lit in yellow.
