Ipswich residents are being encouraged to put safety first and remember the Fatal Five when on the roads this holiday season.
Growth, Infrastructure and Waste Committee Chair Mayor Teresa Harding said regardless of the distance being travelled, drivers should take care and avoid unnecessary risks.
“We want everyone to reach their destinations safely and enjoy a happy and safe holiday season,” Mayor Harding said.
“The Fatal Five of speeding, drink driving, distraction, not using a seatbelt correctly and fatigue are among the leading causes of accidents on our roads.
“Over 50 per cent of fatigue-related crashes happen within 25 kilometres of a person’s departure point and any driver can suffer tiredness, even on short trips, so it is important to be well-rested and in a good frame of mind before getting behind the wheel.”
Road safety is an important part of council’s iGO City of Ipswich Transport Plan.
Council’s Road Safety Action Plan under iGO identifies 45 actions in five areas of influence: road users, infrastructure, community, systems and organisations.
Growth, Infrastructure and Waste Committee Deputy Chairperson Councillor Paul Tully said council had a continued focus to improve road safety culture in the city.
“Road safety needs everyone in the community to collaboratively and continually work towards reducing road trauma,” Cr Tully said.
“As we are all driving over the holidays, please observe the speed limits, slow down in residential areas, be aware of roadside hazards, and do not drink and drive.
“Speeding just five kilometres an hour over the limit in urban areas doubles the risk of a casualty crash.”
For more information about Ipswich City Council’s Road Safety Action Plan and iGO City of Ipswich Transport Plan, visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au
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