Arabic version: خدمات الطوارئ تحث على الحذر مع ارتفاع وفيات الطرق في غرب أستراليا

Emergency services are warning West Australian drivers to avoid complacency as the state’s road death toll continues to rise. With 112 fatalities reported so far this year, authorities are concerned that WA is on track to record the highest number of road deaths since 2008. According to ABC News, the upcoming school holidays are expected to further increase traffic and the likelihood of serious accidents.

St John WA community paramedic David Rae highlighted the dangers posed by increased road traffic during the July 4-19 holiday period. He noted that many drivers are unfamiliar with the roads they travel, which can lead to serious crashes. Rae emphasized the importance of allowing adequate reaction time and warned against tailgating, a common issue he observes on the roads.

WA Road Safety Minister Reece Whitby acknowledged the ongoing efforts to improve road safety, particularly in regional areas where fatalities are highest. Despite a decrease in road deaths per capita over the past decade, WA still holds the second highest road death toll in Australia. The RAC has predicted that this year’s road toll could exceed 200 deaths, which would be the first time the number had exceeded this milestone since 2008.

The government is investing heavily in road safety initiatives, including the use of new technology such as point-to-point cameras. Whitby stated that while government measures are crucial, individual responsibility remains key to improving road safety. Shadow Road Safety Minister Julie Freeman called for greater accountability and emphasized the need for more funding for regional roads, where a significant portion of fatalities occur.