Grim road toll start to new year
More people died on South Australian roads in January than in any month last year according to SA Police, while the number of injuries was also far higher than the 2022 monthly average.
A person is attended to by paramedics at a crash scene in Adelaide. Photo: Supplied
Police said there were 10 fatalities and 89 serious injuries in January 2023, compared to four deaths at the same time last year.
The last time there were 10 lives lost in a calendar month was October 2021.
The RAA has raised concerns about the high rate of deaths and injuries.
“The number of lives lost and serious injuries on our roads in January is a very concerning start to the year,” said Senior Manager of Road Safety Charles Mountain.
“Last year we saw 71 lives lost on our roads, but South Australia was one of only two Australian states where this figure was lower than the year prior.
“What we have seen in January reminds us that we can’t afford to be complacent whenever we get behind the wheel or share the road with others.”
The 89 serious injuries on SA roads last month was alos considerably higher than 2022’s monthly average of 58.
“We should never lose sight of the profound impact serious injuries have on those affected and their families, with many individuals never making a full recovery,” Mountain said.
“Factors such as distraction and fatigue are major contributors to crashes, so it is essential we’re well rested, calm and focused when driving or riding.
“Keeping this in mind will be especially important as our roads become busier in the next few months, with various festivals and the mad March period on the near horizon.”
