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RAA analysis of crash data so far in 2024 shows the state remains off track to meet its road safety targets, with older road users especially being killed at a concerning rate.
SA Police crash data shows 80 people have lost their lives and 734 seriously injured so far in 2024.
Of the 80 people killed so far in 2024, 37 (or 46%) were aged 60 or older – already well above the annual five-year average of 30.8 lives lost (or 31% of all lives lost).
The number of people killed and seriously injured on SA roads this year means the state remains off track to reach the targets in its Road Safety Strategy to 2031.
The strategy, implemented in 2021, seeks to reach targets of a 50% reduction in lives lost and a 30% reduction in serious injuries by 2031. Based on the rolling 12-month totals, South Australia has not been on track to reach the lives lost target since March 2023.
To be on track, SA would need to record 80 or fewer deaths and 639 or fewer serious injuries in 2024. It has already recorded 80 deaths and 734 serious injuries.
This concerning trend is not unique to South Australia, with almost all other Australian states and territories also seeing their rate of road trauma increase in the last five years.
RAA’s analysis of crash data comes ahead of the December school holidays and festive period, which can bring a heightened risk of casualty crashes. Last year 13 lives were lost on SA roads in December, making it the equal second-most deadly month of the year.
RAA Senior Manager Road Safety Charles Mountain said every life lost on the road leaves an unimaginable hole in a South Australian family and the community.
“At RAA we want to advocate for safer communities through safer roads and safer drivers,” Mr Mountain said.
“The number of people losing their lives on our roads every year or sustaining serious injuries with life-long consequences is tragic and cause for serious concern.
“Despite the fact the number of fatal crashes this year is lower than last year, there is still a concerning trend in the wrong direction since the late-2010s, and serious injuries have increased dramatically since then.
“With an aging population, we’re seeing more older road users losing their lives on the road, which is a reminder for everyone to look out for any older family members over the next few months.
“We know that December is a busy time for parties where alcohol is involved, as well as more regional driving, so we’re urging all South Aussies to think carefully about the decisions they make before they get behind the wheel to ensure not only you get to your destination safely but back home safely as well.
“Have a chat with your family and friends about the responsibility that comes with sharing the road with others, and strategies to keep each other safe.
“If you’re attending a party where you’ll be drinking, organise a ride share or taxi or a designated driver ahead of time.
“Staying overnight is also a good option but remember that alcohol takes a long time to leave your system so you could still be over 0.05 the following day.
“If you’re driving regionally, take regular rest breaks, drive to the conditions and stay focused on the task at hand.”