Feb 9 2012
There have been 34 deaths on Victorian roads already this year, 9 more than at the same time in 2011.
Mr Walshe said police did not want to see repeats of the Melbourne Cup weekend last year with many people on the roads at the end of the holidays.
He said alcohol, speed and fatigue were the key risks on which police were focused.
“I am very concerned about the number of deaths we have already seen on our roads in the first few weeks of this year,” he said.
“This is a tragic start to 2012 and we can not allow it to continue.
“We know that many people will be taking an unofficial long weekend over the next four days (Australia Day) and it is crucial we don’t see a repeat of the Melbourne Cup weekend last year.
“Over the Melbourne Cup weekend we lost seven people on our roads, including two teenagers and two children, over four days.
“Australia Day is a time to celebrate. We know that many people will be at barbecues and parties enjoying a few drinks.
“That’s fine, but if you plan to drink – don’t drive, and if you plan to drive – don’t drink.”
Mr Walshe also called for people heading away overnight and in the morning to be vigilant on the road.
“I am sure that there will be a number of people packing up the car and heading to holiday destinations after work today and early tomorrow morning.
“Please, be aware of the risks of fatigue and take regular breaks. Remember that fatigue doesn’t just mean falling asleep and that simply lacking attention can be a killer.
“Similarly speed continues to be a major contributing factor in about one third of fatal collisions.
“Slow down this Australia Day, it’s just not worth the risk.”
Mr Walshe said police would be out across the state enforcing the road rules.
“Our State Highway Patrol will be out in force targeting the state’s highways and holiday destinations over the next four days and early next week,” he said.
“The Road Policing Drug and Alcohol Section will also have a strong presence with booze bus operations targeting drink and drug drivers.
“I’m calling for everyone - drivers, passengers, motorcycle riders, cyclists and pedestrians alike - to be safe this Australia Day.
“Let’s turn around what has been a shocking start to the year.”
Courtesy Victoria Police Media Centre
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
Anna Erbrederis
Victoria Police Media Unit
VP 17533/2012