RAC is urging drivers to slow down and be mindful on WA roads as we head into National Road Safety Week.

This Sunday marks the start of National Road Safety Week (May 5-12) – an annual initiative to highlight the impact of road trauma in our community and remember the lives lost on our roads.

So far this year, 62 people have died on WA roads, a 26 per cent increase compared to the same time in 2023.

RAC General Manager External Relations Will Golsby said National Road Safety Week is an opportunity to reflect on the widespread and devastating impact of road trauma, and the actions we can take to make our roads safer.

“This week is a call out to all Western Australians to have a conversation about road safety with those they care about and make a commitment to always drive safe,” Mr Golsby said.

To highlight the impacts of speed, RAC’s Road of Regret will be available for public viewing at Lakeside Joondalup from 5 to 8 May and Mandurah Forum from 9 to 12 May.

The confronting exhibition shows three potential aftermaths of a two-car crash – in the first, a motorist is travelling at the 50km/h speed limit and t-bones another car, resulting in minor injuries.

“How fast you’re driving determines how likely you are to crash and, if you do, whether you’ll walk away, or suffer life-changing or life ending injuries,” Mr Golsby said.

“Speeding isn’t just driving above the limit; it’s also driving too fast for the conditions. Poor quality roads, high traffic areas and bad weather mean you should slow down and take your time.”

“As everyone gets on the road this week, remember to stay vigilant and drive like someone’s life depends on it because it often does.”

National Road Safety Week was created by the Safer Australian Roads and Highways (SARAH) Group and is supported by RAC. To get involved, make a pledge to “Drive So Others Survive’.

ENDS

Media contact: Lauren Cherry, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au