A window into the harsh reality of road fatalities
Published | 6 May 2024
The confronting scene of a serious road crash has been captured in an installation to be displayed on Hobart’s waterfront during National Road Safety Week (NRSW).
We commissioned the installation to provide a challenging visual into the impact of road crashes, as part of its latest high visibility campaign to shine a light on the impact of road trauma on young people.
Our Group Chief Executive Mark Mugnaioni said NRSW provided an opportunity to reflect on the devastating impact that road trauma has on individuals, families and communities.
“With the highest road toll of any Australian state, Tasmania has already had a devastating start to the year on our roads with eight deaths and 114 serious injuries.
“Last year, distraction while driving contributed to more than 11% of deaths and almost 16% of serious injuries on Tasmanian roads.
“It’s crucial the community comes together and each of us take responsibility for our actions on to create a safer driving environment for all.
“That’s why we are asking Tasmanians to sign a road safety pledge to make a concerted effort to reduce behaviours that contribute to crashes: speeding, inattention, mobile phone use, drink and drug driving and not wearing seatbelt.”
RACT was joined at its launch by Kirby Barker, a 39-year-old Hobart resident who fell asleep behind the wheel five minutes from home.
Miss Barker is still dealing with the physical consequences of that serious car crash 18 years later.
“I shattered both of my legs and numerous bones in my face. It took me one and a half years before I could walk again,” Miss Barker said.
“I’m still impacted by my accident today. I have regular medical appointments and continue to have procedures and surgeries. This will be lifelong.
I also have to be mindful of how far I walk and the activities that I do during the day as my ankles often become swollen and painful.”
“My message to other people who are driving and feel tired is to listen to your body and take a break when you need to,” she said.
Throughout National Road Safety Week, RACT will run several community education programs and other activities to highlight the dangers faced on the road each day.
Businesses and iconic Tasmanian landmarks will also be lighting up yellow for the week.
Mr Mugnaioni said that while NRSW was just one week, efforts to reduce Tasmania’s terrible road trauma record were ongoing.
“Together, the actions we take today, will make our roads safer for tomorrow and reduce the number of tragic incidents on Tasmania’s roads.”