During 2004 the number of persons killed in road crashes in New South Wales per 100,000 population was 7.6. This is the lowest since records were first compiled in 1908. There were 47,3 10 recorded road crashes in New South Wales during 2004. Of these, 20,607 were casualty crashes. There were 5 10 persons killed and 26,323 injured. The estimated cost to the community of these road crashes was around $3,580 million. The number of persons killed was down by 29 (5%) on the previous year and was the lowest annual fatality total since 1947. The number of persons injured was down by 885 (3%) on the previous year. The number of pedestrians killed was the lowest since such records began in 1928. Country roads accounted for 32% of all crashes, but 65% of fatal crashes and 34% of injury crashes. At least 18% of motor vehicle occupants killed were not wearing available seat belts. Five of the sixteen pedal cyclists killed and at least 20% of those injured failed to wear a helmet. Forty-five per cent of the pedestrians killed were aged 60 or more, although only 18% of the population is represented by people of this age. Amongst those crashes in which the alcohol involvement was known, alcohol was a contributing factor in 51 % of fatal crashes on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, 20% of all fatal crashes, 8% of injury crashes and 6% of all crashes. At least 6% of all motor vehicle drivers and motorcycle riders who were killed or injured had an illegal blood alcohol concentration. Around half of these casualties were in the high range (0.15 g/100mL or more). Crashes which involved speeding represented at least 37% of fatal crashes and 17% of all crashes. Twenty-eight per cent of speeding drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were males aged 17-25. In contrast, only seven per cent of speeding drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were females in that age group. Twenty-four per cent of all drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were aged 17-25. Fatigue was assessed as being involved in at least 17% of fatal crashes. Forty-three per cent of the fatigued drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were males aged 40 years or more. (Author/publisher)
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