Communities urged to help save lives

Local councils are being implored to help save lives this September, as part of Rural Road Safety Month, a national initiative working to tackle the alarming fact that almost two-in-three road fatalities occur in regional areas.

The plea comes off the back of new research demonstrating the role all road users play in fuelling risks on rural roads. In fact, the data has shown that the lethal combination of bad behaviour and unpreparedness for high-risk rural conditions has been driving the issue.

ARSF Founder and CEO Russell White is urging councils to help share the road safety message as part of Rural Road Safety Month, and ultimately prevent road trauma in these regions.

“Often the difference between life and death comes down to the individual choice of road users, and that’s why we’re asking all Australians to be the change they want to see on the road by choosing road safety,” Mr White said.

“Creating the education and awareness of the role individuals play requires a joint effort. We’re grateful for the community support from government, community groups, corporate partners and individuals in advocating for Rural Road Safety Month.

“Alarming statistics from the Australian Road Safety Foundation (ARSF) have highlighted the joint effort needed from metro and regional governments to reduce fatalities on rural roads, ahead of September’s Rural Road Safety Month,” he said.

For more information on Rural Road Safety Month, and to find out how you can help save local lives, head to arsf.com.au