Eight people have died across the state since Monday, July 8, bringing the total lives lost to 154, surpassing the total of 152 at the same time last year.
The latest fatal collision occurred just before noon on Thursday, July 11, in Nathalia, with two people killed in a two-vehicle collision.
There have now been 14 fatalities in the first 11 days of July.
In the past week, The News has reported on two separate traffic accidents resulting in two deaths each — the Nathalia crash and one in Rochester on Friday, July 5.
“It’s been a horrific period on our roads — eight lives lost in four days is incredibly concerning to us,” Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said.
“We’re issuing an urgent plea to all motorists to please, take extra care on the roads. Now is not the time to be complacent — this should absolutely be cause for concern for everyone.”
It marks the worst start to July since 2008, when 14 people died in the first 11 days of that month.
While factors in these recent collisions are still under investigation, police are urging everyone to take extra care on the roads.
Motorists should consider slowing down and maintaining a safe braking distance, especially during periods of wet weather when roads are often slippery.
Poor visibility due to reduced daylight hours during winter can make it more difficult to see and be seen, so pay extra attention to your surroundings and avoid distractions, such as mobile phones, while driving.
Avoid driving fatigued by taking regular breaks when travelling longer distances, and never get behind the wheel if you’re impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Police say they are determined to drive down the rising road trauma and will prioritise road policing enforcement across the state throughout the month.
“We need everyone to stop and think — not only about their own safety, but how their decisions and behaviours behind the wheel can impact the safety of all others,” Mr Weir said.
“Far too often we’re seeing simple mistakes, like being slightly over the speed limit, or a split second of inattention, resulting in these catastrophic outcomes.
“We’re committed to doing everything we can to drive down the rising trauma on our roads, but we can’t do this alone.
“Everyone has a responsibility on the roads.”
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