The Victorian Government has reinforced its focus on reducing road trauma in the new year, after the number of people killed on Victoria’s roads rose in 2022.
Last year 240 people lost their lives on the State’s roads – an increase on the 233 deaths the previous year but according to the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), the fourth lowest since its records began.
A total of 134 people died in country areas compared with 119 in 2021 – while metropolitan road deaths dropped from 114 in 2021 to 106 in 2022.
The number of motorcyclists killed increased to 57 from 43 and pedestrian deaths rose to 44 from 29.
The TAC said 27 per cent of people who died in a vehicle were not wearing a seatbelt.
“We want to see all Victorians making smart choices behind the wheel this new year and getting home safely,” said Minister for Police Anthony Carbines.
“If you speed, use your phone or drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, rest assured — you will be caught.”
The Victorian Government aims to half the number of fatalities by 2030, with work focused across education, infrastructure, enforcement, policy and technology.
In 2023, Victorians are once again urged to slow down, put the phone away, never drive drunk or on drugs, take adequate breaks when driving long distances, and be aware of pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.
