Each year, thousands of lives are lost or forever changed due to road crashes across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
Surgeons and healthcare workers see the devastating impact of road trauma not only for the lives lost but also for the lifelong impacts on survivors and their families.
RACS has long advocated for safer roads by working closely with governments, industry, and communities across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, with campaigns from seatbelt laws to anti-drink driving. For those in our Melbourne office, you can see these campaigns displayed in the Hughes Room.
Dr Matthew Hope, RACS Bi-National Trauma Committee Chair, says that “While governments have a vital role to play, road safety is everyone’s responsibility. This week reminds us that vigilance, responsibility, and ongoing commitment are essential. Together, we can work towards safer roads, prevent needless tragedies, and protect the lives of all who travel on them.”
Dr Chris Wakeman Chair, Aotearoa New Zealand Trauma Committee, says “RACS urges making road safety a daily priority during National Road Safety Week. With one road death occurring every day in New Zealand, the emotional toll on families and communities is profound. Surgeons and healthcare professionals emphasise the urgent need for collective action to prevent these devastating losses.”