NSW Road Safety Week Highlights Commercial Driver Risks and Safer Driving Behaviours

National Road Safety Week is under way in New South Wales, with Transport for NSW and the Safer Australian Roads and Highways (SARAR) Group urging drivers to curb behaviours that lead to fatal crashes. So far in the year, 127 lives have been lost on NSW roads, and the campaign emphasizes that each crash leaves lasting impacts on families.

The week spotlights the dangers facing commercial drivers, who account for a substantial share of road fatalities. Safe Work Australia reported that vehicle incidents made up 42% of all worker deaths in 2024, with speeding, fatigue, distraction and lack of seatbelt use identified as leading contributors. Employers are urged to adopt clear safety policies, regular driver training and vehicle maintenance to reduce risk.

Authorities are expanding safety measures, including adding 2,700 mobile speed cameras across NSW, deploying seatbelt‑and‑phone detection cameras, and running education programmes such as the Road Safety Education Program. The campaign’s message – “Drive so others survive” – calls on all motorists to slow down, stay off phones, avoid substance‑impairment and take regular breaks.