AS THE new year begins, Queenslanders are being urged to re-evaluate their driving behaviours as the state faces a devastating start to 2025, with more than 15 lives tragically lost on Queensland roads in the first few weeks.
The figure more than doubles the fatalities recorded during the same period last year and is the highest lives lost toll for this period since 2020.
In 2024, 302 people were killed on Queensland roads, making it the worst year on Queensland roads since 2009.
With more Queenslanders using e-scooters, e-skateboards and solo wheels, 2024, unfortunately, saw eight people lose their lives on personal mobility devices (PMDs), with this number anticipated to increase as usage rises.
Young drivers, aged 16 to 24 years old, make up around 13 per cent of licence holders in the state but are unfortunately involved in almost 30 per cent of the fatal crashes on our roads, highlighting the importance of ongoing education.
Similarly, 98 lives were lost in 2024 as a result of crashes involving senior drivers, which is a 32 per cent increase compared to the average of the previous five years.
The most common contributing factors in serious and fatal crashes continue to be the Fatal Five – speeding, fatigue, distraction (including mobile phone use), incorrect seatbelt use, and drink and drug driving.
Speeding has continued to climb year-on-year as a key factor in fatal crashes, with drivers being urged to slow down and drive to the conditions.
There is a continued upward trend in motorcycle riders being vastly over-represented in road trauma, with 77 riders killed last year – 25.5 per cent above the five-year average, despite motorcycles comprising just four per cent of registered vehicles on our roads.
Heavy vehicles (excluding buses) are also over-represented in fatal crashes. They comprise of around two per cent of registered vehicles, yet as they spend more time on the roads, they are involved in around 15 per cent of fatalities in Queensland.
Regional Queensland is sadly where most road users are losing their lives, accounting for more than 60 per cent of fatal crashes.
The Southern region (Darling Downs, Ipswich and South-West Queensland) had the highest number of fatalities, followed by the North Coast police region (Bundaberg, Gympie, Maryborough, Moreton and Sunshine Coast areas), Central Queensland and Brisbane.
The Crisafulli Government has already begun putting in the groundwork to improve safety on the Bruce Highway for Queenslanders, with the re-establishment of the Bruce Highway Advisory Council to understand the real issues of road users.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said he would also continue to take up the fight with the Federal Government for 80:20 funding for the Bruce Highway to improve safety for all motorists.
“The Bruce Highway is a major national route, and it is about time the Federal Government fronted up and provided the funding needed to keep Queensland moving,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“Too many Queenslanders are losing their lives on the Bruce Highway, and every life cut short leaves a permanent mark on families and has a devastating impact on the entire community.
“At this time of year, we know people typically spend more time on the road than usual.
“Whether it’s a small trip in your area, or a lengthy road trip, there is still no excuse to speed, lose focus, not wear a seat belt properly or drive when you’re affected by drugs or alcohol – it’s just not worth the risk.”