Police and road safety advocates are this week reiterating the importance of avoiding car accidents after a disturbing rise in pedestrian injuries and deaths on state roads so far this year.
In 2014, 21 pedestrians have been killed and countless more injured. This number is up 12 from the same time last year, NSW police said. It has been a dark beginning to the year for all road users with 125 people losing their lives in NSW.
In May alone, there has been 10 fatalities compared to one at this point last year.
This has lead Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander John Hartley to reinforce all motorists to take responsibility for their actions on the road.
“We are calling for all road users; drivers, riders, cyclists, and pedestrians, to stop and consider their surroundings and actions when out on the road,” he said.
He added that at any one time on Sydney’s busy roads, there are a number of motorists including pedestrians,cars and heavy vehicles all “co-existing”.
With the increase in pedestrian deaths and injuries, Australian Road Safety Foundation CEO and Founder Russell White said concentration and focus are key to avoiding car accidents.
“If you are in a vehicle or a pedestrian, the key to road safety is in your hands. At the end of the day, each and every one of us is the key to road safety – every time we take to the road we make a number of decisions which can be the difference between life and death,” he said.
“Our hope is that through education campaigns like Fatality Free Friday, we can reduce the number of men, women and children who unnecessarily lose their lives on Australian roads.”
Mr Hartley had a message for drivers and pedestrians on NSW roads. He says pedestrians should observe basic road rules like crossing at lights only on the green light and drivers should always keep an eye out for pedestrians at intersections.
If you are involved in a car accident in NSW and suffer a whiplash injury or worse, you could be eligible for compensation. The motor accident compensation scheme extends to most motorists including drivers and pedestrians.
It is important to contact a car accident compensation lawyer as soon as you are well enough. They can offer advise about your possible claim and discuss the circumstances around the accident.
