Queensland has recorded its highest road toll since 2009, surpassing the previous worst year of 2022, which had 296 fatalities.

Government data reveals an alarming 11 percent increase in road fatalities in 2024 compared to the four-year average, particularly in the Brisbane police region.

In response to the rising fatalities, Police Minister Dan Purdie urged drivers to 'drive to survive' and take action to protect themselves and others during the holiday season.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie described the road safety statistics as 'sobering' and unacceptable, highlighting the urgent need for improved measures.

In addition to the fatalities, over 6,000 individuals have been injured in road crashes across Queensland in 2024.

A recent tragic incident involved an 83-year-old man who died following a collision in Logan, marking another loss in the increasing road toll.

As of December 2024, Queensland's road fatality rate stands at 5.45 per 100,000 population, which is higher than the national average of 4.87 but lower than rates in Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

To enhance road safety, the government is deploying over 100 additional police motorbikes until January 27, 2025.

While driver fatalities were slightly below average, there was a 9 percent increase in passenger deaths, along with rising fatalities involving motorcycles, bicycles, and personal mobility devices.