RAC’s Risky Roads Survey has received more than 10,000 nominations from West Australians, identifying regional WA’s most troublesome hot spots, with major highways, dangerous intersections and confusing thoroughfares making the top 10.
South Western Highway, from Bunbury to Walpole, was named regional WA’s riskiest road.
Chester Pass roundabout, north of Albany, was regional WA’s riskiest intersection, topping the list for the second time running.
RAC General Manager External Relations Will Golsby said it is encouraging to see so many WA locals having their say.
“Too many people are killed and seriously injured on country roads every day and through this survey the people of regional WA have made a strong statement in the fight for better roads,” Mr Golsby said.
“No one knows our roads better than the people who drive, ride, walk or cycle on them every day – whether it’s a confusing layout, or a speed limit that’s too high.”
The journey from The Lakes to Coolgardie on Great Eastern Highway was named our state’s second riskiest stretch of road, with Albany Highway, from Armadale to Albany, coming in third place.
Bussell Highway and Capel Drive was named the second-worst intersection, followed by the intersection of Forrest Highway and Raymond Road, in Australind.
“Of our 10 riskiest intersections, the top two have already received commitments for infrastructure upgrades, and a reduced speed limit is being trialled on Bussell Highway in Capel, following a strong community campaign,” Mr Golsby said.
“The feedback from this survey will continue to amplify our calls for safer roads across regional WA, as we work with government and road safety agencies to address community concerns.”
Regional WA is consistently overrepresented in road trauma and last year the Great Southern and South West were the worst regions in the state for road deaths, according to the Road Safety Commission.
“Someone is killed or seriously injured on our roads every five hours,” Mr Golsby said.
“More than 60 per cent of the State’s road fatalities occur in regional WA, despite it being home to just 20 per cent of the population.”
“Initiatives like RAC Risky Roads, which give the community a voice, are crucial in shining a light on the areas of greatest concern.”
View the 2022 Risky Roads results.
ENDS
Media Contact: Laura Gardiner, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
