With 154 lives lost on Victorian roads already this year, the Transport Accident Commission is urging motorists to prioritise road safety and be cautious of changing conditions this winter holiday period.
To prevent this number from rising further, TAC is reminding drivers that winter weather brings extra hazards, including black ice, fog, rain, and landslides.
Less than a week into the winter school holiday period, six lives had already been lost on Victorian roads – more than half of the total number of people (10) who died on Victorian roads during the 2022 mid-year school holidays.
TAC acting CEO Tony Dudley urged road users to keep safety at the forefront of their minds at all times.
"These school holidays and beyond, we encourage motorists to stay alert and plan their journeys ahead of time," Mr Dudley said.
"In bad weather or unfamiliar surroundings sticking to main roads and highways can be a safe option.
“It's always best to try and avoid driving in severe weather, but if we find ourselves in difficult conditions, it is safest to slow down, be patient, be visible, and look out for others on the roads."
With shorter days and darker conditions it's also critical that motorists use their headlights in low light and remain vigilant of other road users.
Cyclists and pedestrians are encouraged to enhance their visibility through safe road positioning, wearing bright or reflective clothing when riding, and always crossing at the safest point.
Drivers are also encouraged to regularly inspect tires, brakes, lights, and wipers, as well as consider snow tyres or chains for enhanced grip on slippery surfaces.
"It's been a tragic year on our roads, and regardless of weather conditions, our message is to always put safety first when behind the wheel
"The choices we make could be the reason we and others get home safely."
Victoria Police will continue to have a strong presence on the roads during these school holidays and beyond, with a particular focus on risk-taking behaviours such as speeding, drink and drug driving, distractions, seatbelt non-compliance, and fatigue.
To further support enforcement efforts TAC's current campaign 'Anywhere, Anytime, Anyone' is highly visible across the state, deterring road users from engaging in unsafe behaviours – reminding people that if they take risks on the road, they will get caught.