An overwhelming majority of drivers believe the state’s road network is inadequately maintained and poses a risk to their safety, according to an RAA survey.
The alarming findings come as RAA calls on the public to dob in a dodgy road or intersection in a bid to reduce road trauma and reverse this year’s increase in lives lost.
The survey of more than 600 road users found nine in ten said maintenance of the state’s road network was inadequate, and 86 per cent said they had felt “unsafe’’ travelling on an SA road due to its poor condition.
RAA is hoping its latest Risky Roads Campaign – launched today – is as successful as its last campaign in 2019.
RAA welcomes the investment on the network since the last campaign was undertaken, in particular the more than $300 million dollars spent on infrastructure and maintenance on roads nominated as part of that campaign.
This includes $121 million for Augusta Highway duplication between Port Wakefield and Lochiel, $37 million upgrade of the Horrocks Highway, $24.6 million on the Barrier Highway, $12 million on Victor Harbor Road and $13 million upgrade to Main North Road at Parafield.
RAA spokesman Matt Vertudaches said Risky Roads Campaigns helped identify and address problems with the road network.
“RAA has a long history of advocating for road safety and is committed to preventing loss of life and injuries on our roads,’’ he said.
“We want everyone – whether they’re a motorist, cyclist or pedestrian – to nominate anything they think is unsafe on our roads, including streets and intersections which they find risky and dangerous, as well as confusing or difficult to use, or poorly planned.
“This feedback is vital for RAA to understand issues involving both the regional and metropolitan road network, and work with relevant government authorities to improve road performance and safety for everyone.’’
Mr Vertudaches said the campaign gave people the chance to raise a range of concerns, including the lack of signage on a particular street, road potholes or the layout of intersections.
Today also sees the launch of the RAA Daily website, which features further information, images and videos of RAA media releases. It will also provide regular news on our advocacy, education and engagement activities to media, members and the wider South Australian community. Nominations for RAA’s Risky Roads Campaign are now open, and close on 3 December 2021. For more information visit www.raa.com.au/riskyroads