News
1 January, 2024
Queenslanders urged to drive safely after shocking road toll in 2024
The new year has begun with a call for caution after a devastating 2024 saw 302 people lose their lives on Queensland’s roads, marking the worst year for road trauma in 15 years.
The new year has begun with a call for caution after a devastating 2024 saw 302 people lose their lives on Queensland’s roads, marking the worst year for road trauma in 15 years. This is 25 more than in 2023 and 33 more than the five-year average.
The 2024 road toll is the highest since 2009, and the Crisafulli Government is urging Queenslanders to take extra care, particularly during the summer holiday period when traffic volumes increase.
The Fatal Five—speeding, fatigue, distraction (including mobile phone use), incorrect seatbelt use, and drink or drug driving—continue to be the leading causes of fatal crashes. Speeding remains a major contributor, with a year-on-year increase in fatalities related to excessive speed. Drivers are being urged to slow down and drive according to the conditions.
Motorcycle riders are disproportionately affected, with 77 fatalities in 2024—25.5% above the five-year average—despite motorcycles making up only 4% of registered vehicles. Young drivers, aged 16 to 24, represent just 13% of licence holders but are involved in nearly 30% of fatal crashes. Similarly, crashes involving senior drivers saw a concerning rise of 32%, with 98 lives lost in 2024.
Personal mobility devices (PMDs), including e-scooters, e-skateboards, and solo wheels, also contributed to the road toll, with eight fatalities reported. This number is expected to rise as the use of PMDs continues to grow.
Heavy vehicles, which make up around 2% of registered vehicles, are involved in about 15% of fatal crashes. Regional Queensland accounts for more than 60% of road fatalities, with the Southern region (including Darling Downs and Ipswich) recording the highest number of deaths.
Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg highlighted ongoing efforts to improve road safety, including the re-establishment of the Bruce Highway Advisory Council. He also continues to push for Federal Government funding to enhance the safety of this major national route.
With an increase in travel expected over the summer, Minister Mickelberg urged drivers to remain vigilant. "There is no excuse for speeding, distractions, or driving under the influence—it’s not worth the risk," he said. "Every life lost has a lasting impact on families and communities."
Fast Facts:
302 lives lost on Queensland roads in 2024, the highest since 2009
Five-year average: 285 lives lost annually
2024 saw 1,939 serious injuries from road crashes (Jan-Mar)
Leading causes of fatalities in 2024: speed (20%), drink driving (16%), fatigue (14%), unrestrained occupants (19%), and distractions (9%).
