The Transport Accident Commission is urging country drivers to take extra care on the roads coming into winter after a horror run of fatalities on regional Victorian roads.
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While the overall state road toll is down 14.3 per cent compared to this time last year, from 119 to 102, regional fatalities far outweigh those in metropolitan areas, with 62 people losing their lives on regional Victorian roads in 2017.
TAC road safety director Samantha Cockfield said it was particularly important for country drivers to adapt their driving in the winter months due to the dramatic changes to conditions, with speed continuing to be a primary concern for the road safety body.
“Slowing down, staying alert and driving to the conditions becomes even more important when weather and road conditions are poor,” Ms Cockfield said.
“Black ice, fog, mist, rain, wind and land slips are all potential hazards during winter months, even when driving cautiously on the best country Victorian roads.”
The timely warning comes almost one year after emergency services responded to a tragic double-fatality on the Midland Highway near Daylesford, which police attributed to black ice.
The car was travelling on the highway before Daylesford when it left the road and struck the tree just before 8am.
The crash instantly killed Swan Hill parents Michael, 41, and Jo Glare, 39 leaving four children orphaned. A third passenger was also taken to hospital with minor injuries.
Police had described the road conditions as “treacherous”.
Ms Cockfield said as well as driving cautiously, drivers needed to check the condition of their vehicle and consider the safest route to their destination.
“Instead of taking the back roads to save five minutes, sticking to the main roads and highways can help ensure you get to your destination safely,” Ms Cockfield said.
“Make sure your tyres and brakes are in good condition, ensure all lights are working and use headlights in low visibility,” she said