23 Dec 2016
The Transport Accident Commission has asked Victorians to spare a thought for those spending Christmas Day in hospital with crash-related injuries.
Last year, 194 people spent Christmas in hospital following crashes on Victorian roads.
TAC figures show emergency services attended nearly 40 crashes on Christmas Day last year, with 16 people admitted to hospital as a result.
Tragically, six people died on Victorian roads between Christmas Day last year and January 1.
TAC senior road safety manager Samantha Cockfield encouraged Victorians to consider the steps they could take to ensure they were there to celebrate the holiday period with their loved ones.
Ms Cockfield said every safe trip starts with a plan.
“If people are heading off on a road trip we want them to have a great night’s sleep before they leave,” Ms Cockfield said.
“There’s also a lot of socialising at this time of the year and if alcohol is part of the plan, make sure you have a plan for getting home without driving.”
In addition to managing fatigue and separating drinking from driving, the TAC asked motorists to develop strategies to prevent distraction.
“You might consider turning your phone off and for people with kids in the car, you need to have a plan to keep the kids both hydrated and occupied during the trip, because we know children can be a distraction.”
“Everyone deserves to enjoy a safe and happy Christmas with their families and friends so it’s really important that every Victorian thinks about the choices they can make on the roads to keep each other safe.”
Media queries only:
- Nicolas McGay, 0403 710 889 or Nicolas_McGay@tac.vic.gov.au
- Alex White, 0419 529 505 or Alex_White@tac.vic.gov.au
- Devon McGillicuddy, 0466 029 169 or Devon_McGillicuddy@tac.vic.gov.au
Please refer any other enquiries to:
- Online form
- Tel: 1300 654 329
- Email: info@tac.vic.gov.au