During 2005 the number of persons killed in road crashes in New South Wales per 100,000 population was 7.5. This is the lowest since records were first compiled in 1908. There were 45,554 recorded road crashes in New South Wales during 2005. Of these, 19,859 were casualty crashes. There were 508 persons killed and 25,209 injured. The estimated cost to the community of these road crashes was around $3,600 million. The number of persons killed was down by two (0.4%) on the previous year and was the equal lowest annual fatality total since 1945. There were also 508 persons killed in 1946. The number of persons injured in 2005 was down by I ,1 14 (4%) on the previous year. The number of passengers killed was the lowest since such records began in 1939. Country roads accounted for 32% of all crashes, but 62% of fatal crashes. At least 17% of motor vehicle occupants killed were not wearing available seat belts. Four of the thirteen pedal cyclists killed and at least 21 % of those injured failed to wear a helmet. Forty-six 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 43% of fatal crashes on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, 19% of all fatal crashes, 7% of injury crashes and 6% of all crashes. At least 5% 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-three per cent of all drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were young persons aged 17-25, but this age group accounted for only 15% per cent of licence holders. Thirty per cent of speeding drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were males aged 17-25. In contrast, only two per cent of speeding drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were females in that age group. Fatigue was assessed as being involved in at least 18% 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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