THE mother of a young man killed in a horrific car crash on the Western Highway on Friday has issued a heartfelt warning to all young drivers.
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Overcome with grief and shock, Rosemary Scott said the death of her 21-year-old son Liam needed to send a message.
“Young people think they are immortal on the roads, and they need to realise that they’re not,” Ms Scott said.
“Liam’s death is tragic and we are heartbroken, but I want all young people to think twice when driving on our roads.”
Her only son was killed when his car veered into the path of an oncoming truck on the Western Highway near Beaufort about 3.30pm on Friday.
Ms Scott’s emotional plea came after Ballarat police who attended the accident scene also issued a stern warning to drivers.
The scene at Middle CreekBallarat Highway Patrol Senior Constable Jackie Loveday said it was one of the most horrific accident scenes she had attended and urged drivers to take care.
“All drivers need to be more vigilant,” Senior Constable Loveday said.
“People need to slow down and take extra caution when it comes to weather conditions.
Ms Scott said she had warned her son of the dangers of the Western Highway since getting his licence at 18.
"Young people think they are immortal on the roads, but they are not."
“I hate that highway and I will hate it even more now,” the distraught mother said.
“Living in Ballarat for uni, Liam often drove back home to Horsham, and I guess there was always a sense that something like this could happen.”
His death takes Victoria’s road toll to 118.
To date, 63 people have died on rural roads this year, 14 of whom are in the age bracket from 21 to 25.
Senior Constable Loveday said police were continuing to investigate the accident and would prepare a report for the coroner.
She urged anyone who may have seen the accident to contact the Ballarat Highway Patrol on 53 361 382.
patrick.byrne@fairfaxmedia.com.au
