WA's Mitchell and Kwinana Freeways Named Australia's Most Dangerous Roads Amid Easter Holiday Rush
As tens of thousands of Western Australian travellers embark on their Easter getaways, the very roads they rely on have been identified as the deadliest in the nation. New data highlights that the danger begins even before holiday-goers leave Perth, with the Kwinana and Mitchell freeways ranking as the two most hazardous routes in Australia for driver behaviour.
Study Ranks Perth Freeways at Top of National Danger List
According to research conducted by Australian law firm LHD Lawyers, the Kwinana Freeway recorded the highest dangerous driver score in the country, closely followed by the Mitchell Freeway. The study analysed speed camera activity and government road incident data to compile a total danger-driver index score, placing both WA freeways at the forefront of Australia's riskiest roads.
LHD Lawyers partner Marko Eric emphasised that these findings reflect real-world consequences. High incident volumes on major transport corridors aren't just statistics; they represent real people whose lives can change in a split-second due to negligent driving, he stated. Eric urged drivers to use this data as a wake-up call, particularly during one of the busiest travel periods of the year, encouraging greater awareness and caution on these high-risk routes.
Easter Period Heightens Road Safety Concerns in WA
Road Safety Commissioner Adrian Warner warned that the school holiday and Easter timeframe is among the most perilous on WA roads. As more people take to regional roads to reach our State's beautiful holiday destinations, I urge everyone to look at how they can make every journey safe, he said. Warner highlighted the fatal five preventable causes of road trauma: speeding, incorrect seatbelt use, fatigue, distractions, and drugs and alcohol.
Supporting these concerns, Road Safety Commission data reveals that the South West region has already accounted for 16 out of 44 road deaths in WA this year, representing more than a third of all fatalities. This statistic underscores the heightened risks during holiday travel to popular destinations.
Essential Steps for Drivers After Non-Life-Threatening Accidents
Drawing on motor vehicle accident claims experience, Marko Eric outlined five critical actions drivers should take following a crash:
- Document the scene immediately with photographs and notes.
- Gather contact details from any witnesses present.
- Exchange and accurately record driver information with other parties involved.
- Report the accident to authorities through proper channels.
- Seek medical attention promptly and maintain thorough records of any injuries or treatments.
Eric cautioned that many injuries may not fully manifest until hours, days, or even weeks after an incident. What may seem minor at first can develop into ongoing pain, lost income, and long-term rehabilitation, he explained, stressing the importance of early medical evaluation and comprehensive documentation.
In response to the increased traffic, double demerits will be enforced for five consecutive days over the Easter long weekend, from Thursday, April 2, through to Monday, April 6. Main Roads WA has been approached for further comment on road safety measures during this period.
