RAC is urging Western Australians to take extra care on the road this Christmas with statistics showing road deaths peaked last year during the last two weeks of December – with 10 of 12 deaths occurring between Christmas eve and New Years eve.
In 2023, the final two weeks of the year, saw 12 people killed on WA roads – a number twice the five-year average.
In 2022, nine people were killed in the same period.
The reminder comes amid a horror year for road deaths with year-to-date figures currently sitting at 178 – the highest on record since 2016.
RAC General Manager External Relations Will Golsby said drivers should take extra care during the festive break.
“We’ve experienced a tragic year for road deaths, so we’re pleading with Western Australians to take extra care on the roads as the year comes to a close," Mr Golsby said.
“This means planning ahead, being courteous to other drivers, designating a skipper, and watching your speed.
“Far too many people are already suffering the tragic consequences of road trauma and we don’t want to have an end to the year like last year.
“The best gift you can give this festive season is ensuring you and your passengers arrive safely.
"Nothing is more important than that.”
ENDS
Media contact: Haylee Ruwaard, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
