As we navigate the hustle and bustle of our daily commutes, Australian drivers are now facing a new and worrying trend that’s causing alarm across the nation. The roads are becoming increasingly perilous, not just for those behind the wheel, but for the growing number of motorcyclists, scooter riders, and cyclists sharing the tarmac. With school holidays upon us, the urgency for vigilance has never been greater.
The statistics are sobering. The Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) reports a 20 per cent increase in motor insurance claims for collisions involving bikes and scooters over the past year. This equates to an average of one claim every second day—a clear indicator that the issue is far from isolated.
But what’s driving this nationwide shift? It’s a complex web of factors, including increased congestion, the popularity of two-wheeled transport, and perhaps a lack of awareness or adherence to road rules among all parties. The RACQ’s General Manager of Advocacy, Joshua Cooney, emphasises that ‘everyone has a role to play to stay safe’ on our roads.
The Federal Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) paints a grim picture: 1,300 lives were lost on Australian roads in 2024, marking the deadliest year since 2012. This figure is an 18.5 per cent increase from 2021, the year a 10-year plan to halve road deaths was launched. Despite a slight decrease in driver and passenger fatalities, pedestrian, cyclist, and motorcyclist deaths have surged, with the latter experiencing the deadliest year since 1989.
The data reveals that the afternoon commute between 3pm and 5pm is a particularly dangerous time. Factors such as fatigue and reduced visibility due to the setting sun contribute to this peak in collisions. Cooney urges drivers and riders alike to ‘slow down, follow the road rules and exercise an extra level of caution’ during these hours and throughout the holiday period.
Alarmingly, a fresh RACQ study found that while 75 per cent of Queensland drivers regularly encounter cyclists, a mere 10 per cent are fully versed in the rules of sharing the road with them. This lack of knowledge can lead to near-misses or worse, with 12 per cent of surveyed drivers admitting to such experiences and 25 per cent acknowledging their unfamiliarity with the rules.
Cooney reminds us that when the speed limit is 60km/h or less, a minimum gap of one metre is required between a car and a rider. At speeds above 60km/h, the gap must be at least 1.5 metres. These rules are not mere suggestions; they are critical measures designed to protect lives.
The Sunshine Coast has seen a concerted effort to promote road safety, with police, the Department of Transport and Main Roads, and community groups coming together to advocate for safer e-scooter and e-bike usage. The message is clear: reckless behaviour has no place on our roads.
As this ongoing issue highlights the need for greater awareness and caution on our roads, it’s important to consider the roles we all play in ensuring safety. Whether you are a driver, cyclist, or pedestrian, mutual respect and knowledge of the rules can make a significant difference.
What are your thoughts on the current state of road safety in your area? Have you experienced any challenges or changes in how road safety is managed? We invite you to share your insights and experiences in the comments below.
Also read: The ‘selfish’ acts contributing to increasing road fatalities
