Victorian motorists are being urged to consider the cost of speeding, as new research reveals an increase in the number of people who ignore the risks.
Findings from the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) annual Road Safety Monitor Report, which surveys more than 2,500 Victorians on their road safety behaviours and attitudes, has revealed the highest incidence of self-reported intentional speeding since 2016.
The results showed an increase in respondents admitted to intentionally speeding in 60km/h zones (42 per cent versus 39 per cent in 2020) or 100km/h zones (45 per cent versus 40 per cent in 2020).
The report also uncovered that people viewed speeding as less dangerous than most other high-risk driving behaviours, such as drink driving and driving while using a mobile device.
Speed remains a key factor in Victorian road trauma – contributing to around 30 per cent of deaths each year, and 25 per cent of serious injuries.
The findings come as the TAC launches the second wave of an advertising campaign targeting risk-taking behaviours, like speeding, in a bid to reduce the number of people being killed and seriously injured on our roads and to support Victoria Police’s enforcement efforts.
Sadly, so far this year, 147 people have been killed on Victoria’s roads, compared to 130 at the same time last year.
The campaign aims to deter road users from engaging in unsafe behaviours and remind people that if they take risks on the road, they will get caught – Anywhere. Anytime. Anyone.
The widespread campaign will appear on billboards, radio and digital platforms across the state, and will be expanded later this year.
Other key findings revealed in this year’s 2021 TAC Road Safety Monitor, include:
- 45 per cent admitted to driving while feeling drowsy – an increase from 2020 (38 per cent)
- 29 per cent had used their phone illegally while driving in the preceding three months – however, this has declined substantially from 37 per cent in 2016
- 24 per cent drove between the hours of 10pm-6am at least twice a week – an increase on 2020 (20 per cent)
- 4 per cent had driven when they knew or thought they were over the legal blood alcohol limit – consistent with previous years, continuing a downward trend year-on-year
The full survey results can be found on the TAC website.
