CRASH STATISTICS SOAR IN LOCAL AREA
The 2009 NSW Road Toll figures paint a grim picture with a provisional figure of 263 fatalities on NSW roads to 31st July 2009.
This is an increase of 52 fatalities on the same period in 2008. This trend is mirrored in the Riverina with an increase of 14 fatalities on the same period this time last year.
“The increase in fatalities on our roads is of great concern to police, RTA and local councils, all of whom work hard to keep their communities safe,” said Sandra Robinson, Leeton Shire Road Safety and Traffic Officer.
“In the area covered by Griffith Local Area Command, which includes Leeton and surrounds, there have already been 199 major crashes this year. These have resulted in injuries and fatalities on our local roads, many of which could have been avoided.”
“There has been a significant rise in the number of crashes state-wide which have been attributed to excessive speed, fatigue, drink driving and not wearing a seatbelt. These fatalities also occur in significant numbers on country non-urban roads involving local people,” said Mrs Robinson.
“Passenger fatalities have also risen dramatically. Drivers need to be mindful that if they are taking risks, they are putting others in harms way too. They may be family or friends, so think before you drink and drive and be aware that there is no such thing as safe speeding. Drivers have to take care.”
Contact details
Sandra Robinson
Tel: 02 6953 0931
rso@leeton.nsw.gov.au
