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Tragic month on SA roads prompts Gather Round road safety plea 

9 April, 2026

RAA is urging drivers to take care over the Gather Round weekend after 19 lives were lost on SA roads in the space of 30 days – the worst 30-day period since October 2015.

Nineteen people tragically lost their lives on SA roads between 6 March and 4 April – equating to one life lost every 38 hours. 

This included three lives lost across the Easter long weekend, making it the equal-worst Easter on SA roads since 2013. 

RAA Senior Manager of Road Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain is urging all road users to take care on the roads, especially with thousands of football fans set to travel around the state for Gather Round. 

“Gather Round will see a surge of traffic, with motorists and pedestrians heading to games and exploring South Australians regions,” Mr Mountain said. 

“Whether you’re travelling to Adelaide Oval or taking a road trip to a regional match, it’s critical to stay focused, be patient and adhere to the road rules.

“If you’re planning to have a few drinks, take public transport or organise a lift or rideshare to the game. 

“Drivers are also being reminded to avoid speeding, distraction, fatigue, drink/drug driving and failing to wear a seatbelt – the leading factors in serious crashes. 

“For those travelling long distances to get to South Australia, make sure you stop every few hours, share the driving where possible and stay fully focused behind the wheel.

“Every decision behind the wheel matters, one lapse in concentration can have lifelong consequences.

“Let’s make sure this Gather Round is remembered for what happens on the field – not on our roads.” 

Adelaide Metro services will be free for Gather Round ticketholders from midday on Thursday and Friday, and all day Saturday and Sunday. 

Additional bus, train and tram services will operate during Gather Round and dedicated bus shuttles will operate to Norwood Oval and Barossa Park matches from a stop opposite or next to the Macca’s Footy Festival on King William Road. 

More information about public transport is available at Gather Round 2026 – Adelaide Metro

As for EV drivers, RAA Charge fast charging is available at Bordertown, Coonalpyn, Tailem Bend and Mt Barker – as well as Fast charging is also available in Murray Bridge and Tintinara, which are along this same corridor. 
 
If you’re using the facilities and others are waiting, just recharge to 80% as most EVs recharge quickly from 20-80% but take longer to input the final 20%.

Find an RAA Charge station to power your EV | RAA