Motorists are being urged to take extra care on the roads as the state enters an especially high-risk period for death and serious injury, according to Victoria Police.
Eleven lives were lost in 11 days between November 22 and December 2 in 2021, with police concerned about a repeat this year as traffic volumes increase and wild spring weather continues to cause hazardous driving conditions.
The alert comes as the state recorded 10 lives lost on Victorian roads this month, bringing the total lives lost to 222 – 24 higher than the same time last year, and significantly up on the five-year average.
Distraction, including mobile phone use was cited as the most common underlying factor in collisions during the period of concern, spanning from November 22 to December 2, 2021.
Poor compliance with common road rules, such as failing to give way and failing to keep left were also contributing factors to fatal collisions during this period.
More than half of the collisions occurred on regional roads, and older drivers were overrepresented, with one third of collisions involving a driver aged over 65.
Police are determined to avoid a repeat of these concerning road trauma trends and are urging motorists to take extra care, with December considered one of the highest-risk periods on Victorian roads for collisions.
Victoria Police will increase its enforcement efforts and remain highly visible on roads throughout December, with a statewide road policing operation to come into effect prior to Christmas.
Police will increase its focus on alcohol and drug testing and are warning all motorists to plan ahead when attending social events during the festive period.
Acting Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Justin Goldsmith said now is not the time to be complacent when getting behind the wheel.
“Unfortunately, it was distraction and basic road user errors during this period last year that resulted in the most fatalities, which just shows that a simple lapse in concentration can have catastrophic consequences,” he said.
“Slowing down, remaining alert and being extra cautious during periods of wild weather are simple, but ultimately life-saving measures that all motorists can take to protect themselves and other road users.
“Police will be doing everything they can to reduce road trauma during this high-risk period, but we need everyone to do their bit”
