The troubling number of Victorians dying in older motor vehicles has called for potential buyers in new or replacement car markets to do their research and put safety first.
Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Ben Carroll said new figures from the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) reveal that around two thirds of drivers and passengers killed on Victorian roads last year were travelling in vehicles aged more than 10 years old.
“So far in 2022, 28 out of the 54 driver and passenger deaths have occurred in a vehicle built more than a decade ago and the average vehicle on Victoria’s roads is around 10 years old – meaning far too many cars are without the latest lifesaving technologies found in more modern vehicles,” Mr Carroll said.
“The Australasian New Car Assessment Program and Used Car Safety Ratings are free to access and provide the latest vehicle safety information to help people in the market make an informed choice,” he said.
“A matter of minutes can make the difference between life or death.”
Mr Carrol said some life-saving car features that people should look out for included auto-emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, electronic stability control, as well as front, side, and curtain airbags.
He said it was important when buying a car, whether it be new or used, not to overlook safety features that could reduce the severity of a crash or help avoid one altogether.
“It’s a myth that you need to spend big bucks on an expensive new car,” the Minister said.
“Whether you’re choosing a car for yourself or your family you can find a safe, affordable used car to suit your budget and needs – and it could save your life.”
Readers can see the latest ratings, look for information about vehicle safety features and check how safe their car is on the TAC’s How safe is your car? website at this PS News link.
