Creating a safer generation of drivers
On average around 300 people are seriously injured or killed on Tasmania’s roads each year, including 67 young people. This is a tragic number that’s not improving. Now is the time to invest in protecting our young people.
With Tasmania well and truly in the midst of an election campaign, we’re driving home the message that road safety is an investment in our youth. Our program, which would see comprehensive road safety education embedded in secondary schools is designed to arm young Tasmanians with the knowledge and skills to navigate the roads with caution and care. It’s an approach that promises to significantly reduce road deaths and injuries, much like learn-to-swim programs have improved water safety.
Generational change begins with education. That’s why RACT, is seeking the development and implementation of a thoroughly structured, professionally-led road safety curriculum, encompassing both theory and practical learning.
The initiative is about ushering in generational change by laying the groundwork for responsible road use for years to come. The program will support young Tasmanians through all stages of licensing, provide invaluable assistance to parents and carers, and support disadvantaged youth to obtain their licence.
We need to take a different approach over the coming five years, with 40,000 Tasmanians expected to gain their licence. The cost of doing nothing will see more deaths and tragedy on our roads.
The economic and social cost to the state alone is estimated to be $38M, let alone the countless families and communities devastated by lives lost.
As we count down to the election, we urge political leaders to support this lifesaving policy. Together, we can pave the way towards a future where every journey is safe, and every driver is equipped with the principles of road safety.
RACT stands committed to this vision.
You can find out more on how we can make our roads safer by reading our Community page, Creating a safer generation of drivers.