Dangerous Road Conditions Revealed in RACV Survey: Potholes and Poor Maintenance Top Safety Concerns in Regional Victoria
- ByEmily Williamson --
- 2024-07-30 10:56:32 --
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- AU
Victorians Speak Out on Regional Road Safety
In a major survey conducted by the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV), over 7,000 Victorians have provided crucial data on the safety of regional roads across the state. The results of the "My Country Road" survey paint a concerning picture, with potholes and poor road conditions emerging as the primary safety issue for an overwhelming 64% of participants - a significant increase from 46% in 2021.
RACV's Head of Policy, James Williams, emphasized the importance of this data in advocating for safer regional roads. "As a safety advocate, it's important that RACV closely examines what Victorians think are the factors contributing to unsafe road conditions, so we can provide that information to all levels of government and encourage action," he said.
The survey revealed that the Melba Highway from Coldstream to Yea received the most responses regarding safety concerns, followed by Tylden-Woodend Road from Woodend to Tylden, Kilmore Road from Monegeetta to Gisborne, and the Goulburn Valley Highway from Nagambie to Shepparton. The most dangerous intersection in regional Victoria was identified as the junction of the Midland Highway and Howard Street in Epsom, north of Bendigo.
"Sixty per cent of survey participants think that improving road surfaces should be the priority road safety solution."
The survey also highlighted the impact of poor road conditions on driver behavior, with 14% of participants supporting "a lower or more appropriate speed limit" as a measure to improve road safety. This figure rose to 56% on the top 12 worst roads, indicating that many Victorians believe reducing speed limits is an appropriate approach to address the hazardous conditions.
RACV will use the data from the survey to urge the state government and local councils to make commitments that deliver safer regional roads. The organization noted that while 16 of the 21 most dangerous roads identified in the 2021 survey received upgrades and improvements, more work needs to be done to address the ongoing safety concerns.
The survey also explored Victorians' attitudes towards electric vehicles (EVs), with 36% of participants indicating they have considered buying an EV. However, the top two reasons cited for not driving an EV were the high purchase cost and limited battery range.
RACV's James Williams noted that regional Victorians have a preference for more charging stations at service stations and rest stops, reflecting the unique needs of rural and regional drivers.
The 2024 "My Country Road" survey saw a significant increase in participation, with over 75% more responses compared to the 2021 survey. This demonstrates the growing concern among Victorians about the safety of their regional roads and the urgent need for action.
The survey results highlight the critical importance of addressing the deteriorating condition of regional roads in Victoria. RACV's advocacy will be crucial in pushing for the necessary investments and improvements to ensure the safety of all road users, whether they are driving, cycling, or using public transportation.
As the state government and local councils consider their infrastructure priorities, the voices of these 7,000 Victorians must be heard and their concerns addressed to make regional roads safer for everyone.