There were 51,814 recorded road traffic accidents in New South Wales during 2001. Of these, 23,168 were casualty accidents. There were 524 persons killed and 29, 913 injured. The estimated cost to the community of these road traffic accidents was $2,580 million. The number of persons killed was down by 79 (13%) on the previous year and was the lowest annual fatality total since 1947. The number of persons injured was up by 1,101 (4%) on the previous year. The number of pedestrians killed was the lowest since such records began in 1938. The average number of persons killed per fatal accident was the lowest since 1960. Country roads accounted for 32% of all accidents, but 59% of fatal accidents and 33% of injury accidents. At least 25% of motor vehicle occupants killed were not wearing available seat belts. Of the 13 pedal cyclists killed, six failed to wear a helmet. Thirty-six per cent of the pedestrians killed were aged 60 or more, although only 17% of the population is represented by people of this age. Amongst those accidents in which the alcohol involvement was known, alcohol was a contributing factor in 51% of fatal accidents on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, 23% of all fatal accidents, 9% of injury accidents and 7% of all accidents. Of the 1,055 motor vehicle drivers and motorcycle riders who were killed or injured with an illegal blood alcohol concentration, 50% were in the high range (0.15 g/100mL or more). Accidents which involved speeding represented at least 43% of fatal accidents and 17% of all accidents. Thirty-nine per cent of speeding drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal accidents were males aged 17-25. In contrast, only two per cent were females in the above age group. Twenty-four per cent of all drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal accidents were aged 17-25. Fatigue was assessed as being involved in at least 15% of fatal accidents. Twenty-five per cent of the fatigued drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal accidents were males aged 30-39. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting