Thousands of year 10-12 students will witness the tragedy and life-long consequences of road trauma at RAC bstreetsmart, delivered in partnership with WA’s emergency services.
RAC bstreetsmart features a live re-enactment of a fatal crash, response from real-life paramedics, firefighters and police, and first-hand accounts from guest speakers directly impacted by road trauma.
RAC Group Executive Social and Community Impact Patrick Walker said the event sends a powerful message to future road users.
“RAC bstreetsmart educates students about safe driver and passenger behaviour, and the effects of alcohol, speed, reckless behaviour, and inattention,” Mr Walker said.
According to the Road Safety Commission, over a quarter of all road deaths last year were in the 17 to 29 age group.
“The inexperience and overconfidence of young drivers puts them at significantly higher risk, which is why RAC bstreetsmart aims to provide a wake-up call that sticks,” Mr Walker said.
Robert Pike, who was involved in a tragic car accident which led to the loss of three friends, and the loss of his legs below the knees, will share his personal experience with road trauma.
“Driving requires all your attention, 100 per cent of the time. All it takes is a fraction of a second, a moment to lose focus, and your life could change forever,” Mr Pike said.
“I hope my story demonstrates the importance of road safety, and inspires young drivers to create safe, lasting habits behind the wheel.”
Department of Fire and Emergency Services Deputy Commissioner Operations Craig Waters AFSM said firefighters have already attended more than 1,900 road crash rescue incidents this year.
“By demonstrating the life-changing realities of a serious car crash, we can educate young drivers and reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads,” Mr Waters said.
WA Police State Traffic Operations Superintendent Alyson Brett said multiple behaviours can lead to crashes on our roads.
“Speeding, alcohol and drug use, fatigue and mobile phone distraction continue to be major issues,” Ms Brett said.
St John WA Acting Executive Director of Ambulance Justin Fonte said the event would leave a lasting impression.
“Risky behaviour on WA roads can have devastating consequences for families and friends, which St John ambulance personnel see first-hand. RAC bstreetsmart highlights the serious responsibilities all drivers have behind the wheel,” Mr Fonte said.
Over 80 schools are registered to attend this year’s event, which has now been seen by over 65,000 young Western Australians since RAC first hosted the event in 2012.
RAC also encourages students to take advantage of programs such as Keys2drive, which gives learner drivers a free lesson with an accredited driving instructor.
ENDS
RAC Media Contact: Olivia Palmer, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
