Queensland has experienced its deadliest year on the roads in 15 years, with 302 lives lost in 2024. This marks a tragic 25-person increase over 2023 and a 33-person rise compared to the five-year average. The state’s worst road toll since 2009 has prompted calls for drivers to be more vigilant, especially as the summer holiday period brings increased traffic.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, The Honourable Brent Mickelberg, emphasised the need for caution.
“At this time of year, we know people typically spend more time on the road than usual,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“There is still no excuse to speed, lose focus, not wear a seat belt properly, or drive when you’re affected by drugs or alcohol – it’s just not worth the risk.”
The major contributing factors to road fatalities remain the Fatal Five: speeding, fatigue, distraction (including mobile phone use), incorrect seatbelt use, and drink and drug driving. Speeding continues to rise as a key factor, particularly among motorcyclists, who made up 77 of the fatalities, a 25.5% increase from the five-year average.
Young drivers aged 16 to 24, who make up 13% of the state’s licence holders, were involved in almost 30% of fatal crashes, while senior drivers accounted for 98 deaths, a 32% increase from previous years.
Regional Queensland, particularly the Southern region and North Coast, saw the highest number of fatalities, with more than 60% of the state’s fatal crashes occurring outside urban areas.
Minister Mickelberg also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve road safety, including advocating for increased federal funding to upgrade the Bruce Highway.
To access more information on road safety, visit https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/.
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