06 May 2013 – Fatality Free Friday

6 May 2013 1:13 PMMichael Hart

 

 

Show your support for Fatality Free Friday

 

The Newman Government has appealed to all Queensland motorists to pledge their support for road safety this month.

 

With the goal of no road deaths in Queensland that day, the Newman Government is appealing to all Queensland motorists to pledge their support for road safety.

 

Member forBurleigh Michael Hart MP said Fatality Free Friday served as a timely reminder for everyone to pay due care and attention when on the road.

 

“As part of the Government’s support of this event, an inflatable car will tour the state which people can sign to pledge their support for road safety,” Mr Hart said.

 

“The car will visit several locations throughout Queensland where people can sign their pledge, or they can sign their pledge online at www.fatalityfreefriday.com.

 

“We encourage everyone to get behind this great community program.”

 

Mr Hart said Fatality Free Friday put road safety back into the hands of the community by encouraging all road users to ensure they are safe on the roads.

 

“While Fatality Free Friday aims for no road deaths on May 31, we implore motorists to keep the message top of mind every time they get behind the wheel, every day of the year,” he.

 

As at 30 April, 2013, 99 people have lost their lives on Queensland roads so far this year, 16 more than at the same time last year.

 

Mr Hart said it was startling to see almost one in five road fatalities in Queensland occurred on a Friday last year.

 

“This year’s theme “don’t gamble with your life at level crossings” is being supported by Queensland Rail’s current safety campaign,” he said.

 

“In 2012, there were 400 reported near misses at railway crossings across the Queensland Rail network, down from 472 the previous year.

 

“A crash at a level crossing could have catastrophic results, so I urge drivers to heed the message – it’s just not worth the risk.”

 

“Already, more than 38,000 people have pledged their commitment to a Fatality Free Friday.

 

“I encourage Queenslanders to make their pledge, either by signing one of the inflatable cars touring the state, or online.”

 

[ENDS] 6 May 2013