More than 1250 people were killed on the nation’s roads in the 12 months to November 30 – a 6.3 per cent jump on last year and the highest annual road toll since March 2018.

South Australia recorded the biggest increase with a 61.4 per cent jump in fatalities, followed by NSW at 23.8 per cent and Victoria with 14.5 per cent.

Deadly incidents were down in all other states and territories.

Peak motoring body the AAA said crucial data on the quality of roads, causes of crashes and law enforcement could help put an end to the alarming trend, but states and territories haven’t released enough information.

“Month after month, road deaths keep rising and we lack the information needed to identify the reasons for this deadly trend and to develop the most effective measures for reducing crashes,” managing director Michael Bradley said.

He accused transport ministers of kicking safety reforms “down the road” after no commitment was made to release the information at a meeting earlier this month, and hopes that will change next year.

“Until this reform is implemented, we will not be able to identify the reasons for rising road deaths and develop the most effective measures for reducing crashes,” Bradley said.

Federal transport minister Catherine King called on all drivers, bike riders and pedestrians to take care over the summer break.

“Please drive with care this holiday season, this season should be filled with joy, not sorrow,” she said.

“Deaths are not just a statistic; they are someone’s parent, sibling, colleague, or cherished friend.

“So please take it easy on the roads and remember that road safety is a shared responsibility.”

– with AAP