As the countdown to the new year begins, South Australians are being urged to prioritise road safety to ensure 2024 starts off on the right note.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Joe Szakacs and Think! Road Safety partner Adelaide Strikers have today issued a plea to the community to exercise utmost caution on the roads this holiday season, so that no other family joins the hundreds already mourning tragedy.

Tragically, 113 lives have been lost on South Australian roads this year and 851 people have been seriously injured.

South Australia Police has identified road user behaviour as a factor in many of these crashes with more than 10 per cent of people who lost their life being unlicensed or not wearing a seatbelt.

With thousands getting out and about this weekend, whether that’s into the city or off on a road trip, motorists are being asked to slow down, be patient and pay attention on the roads.

Drivers must be aware of the dangers of the Fatal Five - drink and drug driving, speeding, distraction, seatbelts, and dangerous road users.

Road safety is a collective responsibility – please be patient and considerate on the roads, put your phone away, designate a driver or use public transport if you are planning to drink, wear your seatbelt, drive to the road conditions, and plan your route to minimise abrupt, possibly life-changing decisions.

Those planning a long-haul trip on country roads are urged to plan ahead, take a break at least every two hours and avoid driving at times you would usually be asleep.

Fatigue is more likely to be a factor in crashes in rural areas, but can affect anyone. If you are fatigued the only cure is to stop and take a break.

For metropolitan New Year’s Eve celebrations, Adelaide Metro bus, tram and train services will be free from 5pm on Sunday to 6am on 1 January 2024 and extra services will run before and after the Big Bash League clash between Adelaide Strikers and Melbourne Stars.

Check your timetable in real time and plan your trip with Adelaide Metro’s journey planner.

For road safety tips, road rules and licencing information, visit My Licence - My Licence.

Quotes

Attributable to Joe Szakacs

This year has seen a devastating toll on our roads, with far too many lives lost and families now grappling with unthinkable loss and trauma.

Let us not enter the new year with a new burden of tragedy – I implore everyone to be mindful of their actions on the road.

No matter your journey this holiday season, make responsible choices, look out for your mates, do the right thing, and give our first responders a break. That is the greatest thing you can do this holiday period.

Police officers cannot be everywhere so please take personal responsibility. Ensure you aren’t distracted, buckle up, don’t drive when tired, take regular breaks and don’t drive if you plan on having a drink.

Attributable to Charlie Hodgson, SACA CEO

It’s fantastic that our fans are able to use free public transport to attend the cricket safely, without having to worry about parking or cost of transport, as part of our Think! Road Safety partnership.

We thank the State Government for continuing this initiative, which includes making more bus, train and tram services available.

Our iconic New Year’s Eve fixture is a highlight on the summer calendar. We can’t wait to see a packed stadium and encourage everyone to have a great time and to get home safely.