One death is too many

Statistics released by the TAC covering the 12 months to August show there were six fatalities – the same as the previous year.

Acting Sergeant Ben Lowcock of the Wodonga Highway Patrol said police would prefer to see no deaths on Wodonga roads.

“One death is well and truly too many,” he said.

“We’ll be putting in a concerted effort to target high-risk behaviour that contributes to this.”

Serious crashes involving hospitalisation have improved.

The statistics show a 48 per cent reduction in cases from February 2015 to February 2013.

There has also been a 30 per cent reduction in crashes resulting in people being hospitalised from more than two weeks over the same period.

“That suggests that the community is taking a lot of the safety principles and campaigns onboard,” Acting Sergeant Lowcock said.

“They’re modifying their behaviour and driving a little bit more appropriately.

“That’s a heartening thing.

“It means we are having an impact.”

But more needs to be done to further decrease the incidence of road trauma, he said.

“We’re using an intelligence-led policing model looking at high-risk areas, high-risk people and high-risk behaviours,” Acting Sergeant Lowcock said. 

Police in both Victoria and NSW are running traffic operations for the AFL and NRL grand final long weekend.

Victorian Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Doug Fryer said road safety was not just a policing matter, with members of the public urged to play their part.

“We know whether you are going to the football, a barbeque, or the pub to watch the game, alcohol will likely be part of the celebrations,” he said.

“If you plan to drink, there is nothing more important than planning a safe way home.

“Organise a designated driver, call a taxi or use public transport - otherwise you can expect to be breath tested.”

In NSW, driver reviver stations are operating for motorists to take breaks and officers are enforcing double demerit points.

Police expect more long-haul motorists this weekend.