Road death numbers in Australia have increased. During the 12 months ending May 2023, there were 1,202 road deaths. This is an increase of 2% from the 12-month period ending May 2022. There was a total of 106 road deaths during the month of May 2023 – this is 15.2% higher than the average for May over the previous five years[1].
These figures are frightening and keep increasing. The Australian Road Safety Foundation (ARSF) has released new research detailing the attitudes and actions that may help prevent tragedy on our roads[2]. The research reports a number of alarming insights including a rise in road aggression combined with continued bad behaviour and a decline in common road etiquette such as the ‘thank you wave’.
ARSF CEO and founder Russell White said that;
“ When confronted with the road toll numbers, more than three-quarters (76%) of Australians admitted it made them think or act safer, which means keeping the conversation going can and will make a difference. The vast majority (85%) of Australians recognise that it’s individual road users who can have the biggest impact, so our job now is to help people understand that it’s not just about the big choices that have grave consequences.”
According to the research, 95 per cent of Australian road users believed a simple ‘thank you wave’ could contribute to improved road safety. Sadly, more than half (55%) believed this symbolic gesture of road kindness was on a sharp decline across the country.
No matter your choice of vehicle, motorhome or caravan, truck or car, we implore you to rethink your road etiquette and bring back the thank you wave in your daily drives.
Resource reference
[1] Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts https://www.bitre.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/rda_may2023.pdf
[2] Australian Road Safety Foundation Media Release 28 April 2023 https://arsf.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/ARSF_FFF-2023_-National-Launch-Media-Release.pdf
