Queensland recorded its highest road toll in 15 years, with 302 fatalities reported in 2024, according to RACQ.
This marked the first time since 2009 that road deaths exceeded 300, sparking fresh calls for action to address dangerous driving behaviours and improve road safety.
RACQ’s head of public policy, Dr Michael Kane, identified poor driving choices as the leading cause of these preventable incidents, aligning with the Royal Automobile Club of Western Australia’s recent findings.
“The confronting reality is the vast majority of fatal crashes involve poor driver behaviour,” he said. “Speeding, drink driving, and drug driving are the top killers on our roads, and we need strong and urgent law reform to curb this alarming trend and improve our road safety culture.”
Kane argued that penalties, such as fines, have not sufficiently curbed dangerous driving and called for a review of enforcement strategies.
“Before COVID, our road toll was trending down and by now we should be seeing a road toll closer to 200, not 300,” he said.
RACQ plans to continue working with the Queensland government to advocate for changes aimed at reducing fatalities and fostering safer driving habits.
The rising toll coincides with growing financial strain on vehicle owners, potentially impacting how Australians approach vehicle upkeep and insurance.
According to new data from mycar Tyre & Auto’s Mobility Index, rising costs of living are pushing Australians to adjust how they manage vehicle maintenance and insurance.
The survey of 2,004 vehicle owners found that financial challenges have led 60% of respondents to modify their maintenance routines, with 77% undertaking basic repairs themselves.
Nearly 24% of participants reported extending the time between routine services, and 21% opted for less expensive repairs.
Financial strain is also impacting insurance choices, with 49% of respondents adjusting their coverage. Of these, 11% have cancelled their policies, while 27% switched to lower-cost options. Additionally, 14% noted difficulties keeping up with insurance payments.
The Mobility Index also explored consumer views on emerging automotive technologies, such as autonomous driving and biometric recognition. Concerns about these innovations remain significant, with 44% of respondents expressing reservations about self-driving vehicles.
Distracted driving continues to be a widespread issue, with 88% of respondents observing others engaging with in-car technology while driving, though only 24% admitted to doing so themselves.
