National Road Safety Week kicks off today, highlighting the impact of road trauma across the country.

While we can pat ourselves on the back in New South Wales that, along with the Northern Territory, we are the only state where the road toll has not spiked over the last 12 months, there is no place for complacency.

From end of March 2022 to end of March this year, the NSW road toll was stagnant with zero change, but still recording 289 deaths - which is the third lowest since 1923. However, as everyone would agree even one road fatality is too many.

During this week, road users are encouraged to take the pledge to Drive So Others Survive - including not being distracted while driving, not speeding and to never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Lachlan Shire Councils' Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, said many local Councils have been supporting the initiative since 2017.

"During National Road Safety Week 2023, yellow ribbons will be displayed all across the country to remember those we have lost on the roads and to remind us to drive safely," Ms Suitor said. 

“The trauma caused by road crashes echoes through our community and is felt by so many - family and friends, work colleagues, community groups, emergency service workers and local communities. Our fleet vehicles and staff will proudly display yellow ribbons and you are encouraged to pick up a vehicle sticker and/or lapel ribbon for free from our administration offices in Parkes, Forbes, Condobolin and Lake Cargelligo," Ms Suitor said.

The email signatures of the three Councils' staff will display the National Road Safety Week artwork for the week. 

"Driving is one of the highest risks that our workers are exposed to. So, on Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18 May the Councils' are hosting Railway Level Crossing Safety Sessions which will be presented by Pacific National and Transport for NSW," Ms Suitor said.

Pacific National CEO Paul Scurrah said it was critical motorist were cautious around level crossings as it takes a 1.5 kilometre-long freight train travelling at 100 kilometres an hour approximately two kilometres to come to a complete stop.

“Freight trains can’t swerve, so whether you’re a motorist, truck driver, cyclist or pedestrian, please stay safe at level crossings and remember to stop, look, listen and think before you cross.

“Even when the emergency brakes are applied, a fully loaded train cannot come to a complete stop instantly, so the outcome can be devastating if motorists are reckless about safety around level crossings," Mr Scurrah said.

You can sign the pledge to Drive So Others Survive online.