The Transport Workers Union is calling for a road toll response following the recent release of statistics on fatal heavy vehicle crashes from Transport for NSW.
Over the past five years until March 31, there have been 259 fatalities on the state’s roads making for an average of 52 deaths annually.
Transport for NSW also revealed 240 fatal crashes involving heavy trucks during this period. Additionally, there were 4774 injuries, translating to an average of 955 injuries annually, including 1327 serious injuries.
The number of fatal heavy truck crashes over the past year had staggeringly increased, with 21 more people being killed than in the previous 12 months.
“The relentless pressures from employers and the escalating costs of living have created a perfect storm, exacerbating the dangers faced by truck drivers every day,” says TWU NSW assistant state secretary Nick Mcintosh.
“This is why the State Government needs to act urgently to legislate their election commitment to strengthen the provisions of Chapter 6 to better deal with these deadly pressures.”
“Trucking isn’t just a job; it’s one of the most perilous professions out there. These numbers underscore the gravity of the situation and with each passing year, the industry becomes increasingly treacherous, placing the lives of drivers at greater risk.”
“We owe it to our truck drivers—the backbone of our economy —to ensure their safety on the roads. The current situation is unacceptable and demands immediate action.”
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