The holiday season is meant to bring people together—but for too many Australian families, this time of year is marked by heartbreak instead of celebration.

This year alone, 990 lives have been lost on Australian roads. That’s 990 families facing an empty seat at the Christmas table. As driver-trained OTs, we see firsthand how deeply road trauma affects not only the individuals involved, but also their families, and friends.

That’s why we’re joining the Australian Road Safety Foundation (ARSF) in urging everyone to prioritise safe driving during the busy holiday period.

If you’ve walked through Queen Street Mall recently, you may have seen ARSF’s striking Tree of Remembrance installation:

  • 228 illuminated lanterns, each representing a life lost last summer (Dec–Jan).
  • 40 of those lanterns are red, marking lives lost during just the 12 days of Christmas.

It’s a sobering reminder that even one moment of inattention can change lives forever.

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Risky Behaviours Are Still Far Too Common

ARSF’s latest research shows that unsafe driving habits continue to be the norm for many Australians:

  • 68% admit to engaging in risky behaviour
  • 56% openly admit to breaking road rules
  • 70% report distraction behind the wheel
  • 47% speed
  • 33% drive fatigued

From our perspective at Driving Well OT, we know how these everyday “small” decisions quickly add up to major risks. Even glancing at a phone or pushing through tiredness can impair reactions in ways people severely underestimate.

As ARSF Founder Russell White said, “Most crashes aren’t accidents; they’re the result of unsafe decisions.”

Let’s Bring the Focus Back to Safety This Christmas

This season, the greatest gift you can give your family is your safe arrival home.

The good news? ARSF reports that 87% of drivers say road safety messages make a positive difference. A simple reminder is often all it takes to change behaviour.

Practical Ways Every Road User Can Help Keep Our Roads Safe
Drivers

  • Be fit to drive (well-rested, sober, calm)
  • Drive to suit weather and traffic conditions
  • Stay focused—reduce in-car distractions
  • Plan regular breaks, especially on long trips

Passengers

  • Avoid distracting the driver
  • Be a calm second pair of eyes
  • Only travel with someone fit to drive

Cyclists & Motorcyclists

  • Maximise visibility with lights and reflective gear
  • Wear protective clothing and a helmet
  • Avoid distractions

Pedestrians

  • Be visible, especially at night or in poor weather
  • Stay alert near roads and traffic
  • Avoid using devices while crossing streets
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As we support clients with medical, cognitive, and physical barriers to driving, we understand better than most how fragile road safety truly is. We encourage all road users—our clients, families, and the broader community—to stay mindful, stay patient, and stay safe this festive season.

Let’s reduce the number of empty seats at Christmas tables. Let’s give the gift of presence.

For more information on ARSF’s work and ways to support road safety initiatives, visit ARSF.