There is an alarming crisis unfolding on the roads in Australia and the Royal Automobile Association (RAA) is issuing dire warnings about the increase in deaths of pedestrians. There have been no deaths of pedestrians in Australia for over 15 years and now the public is debating and concerned about how to best reverse these unfortunate trends.
Increase in the Death of Pedestrians
In metro Adelaide there was an unbelievable 160% increase in the deaths of pedestrians during 2025 with 13 lives being lost during only the first 9 months of the year which is more than double the 5 year average. This is a sad situation that is being replicated throughout Australia. There was an increase of 27% in the deaths of pedestrians which has attributed to the national road deaths that have not been seen since the late 2000’s.
Reasons for the Increase
There are a few reasons for this increase. Road safety campaigns cite distracted driving, the increasing complexity of urban intersections, and the greater volume of pedestrian activity around major events. Tireddness is one of the most underappreciated risks, and authorities remind Australians to avoid driving when fatigued, and for pedestrians during crossing. And during the dark hours when risks are heightened, remind pedestrians to cross, limit distractions, and stay visible.
Government and Community Responses
Increased road safety regulations and new fines, such as a $220 fine for not yielding to emergency vehicles, are some of the actions taken by the Federal government. The aim of these actions, along with other steps taken to improve the safety features of vehicles, is to improve the safety of not only drivers but also pedestrians and to achieve an overall target of halving road deaths by the year 2030. Road fatalities and pedestrian deaths continue to be disappointing, increasing evidence to suggest the efforts are not reaching the intended focus.
Groups That Are More Vulnerable
Statistics indicate that elderly pedestrians are more exposed, constituting an alarming proportion of fatality loses. Experts attribute this to an inability to maneuver through complex traffic systems, coupled with slower walking rates. Males of almost every age are more likely to die in pedestrian accidents. The risk is greatest in metropolitan areas, especially during the evenings and at large social events like AFL matches.
Expected Cultural Change
Experts along with the RAA, emphasize anticipation of pedestrian death trends, requires a road user collective cultural change. Both the road users, pedestrians, and the government in charge of the road safety protocols, must adopt and enforce, the new road safety rules, to minimize the growing toll.
| Data Point | 2024/2025 Value |
|---|---|
| Pedestrian deaths | 205 (last 12 months) |
| % change vs. prior | Up 27% (year) |
| Adelaide deaths | 160% above average |
| National road toll | Highest in 15 years |
FAQ
Q1: Why are more pedestrians dying?
Pedestrian fatalities can be attributed to more traffic and events that attract large crowds, along with distracted driving.
Q2: What has the government done?
The government has implemented new road rules, tougher consequences for infractions, and advanced vehicle safety requirements.
Q3: Who is most at risk as a pedestrian?
The highest risk is posed to older adults and men in cities, particularly in busy times and after dark.