It is meant to be a time of celebration, family and new beginnings. But this year, as it does every year, Christmas will bring trauma and heartbreak for some.
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Over more than four decades of service in the police force, Sergeant Mark Holloway has seen more tragedy during the festive season than most.
This was how he described a vehicle accident on Christmas for those who witness it, experience it or know a person who does.
“It’s the most traumatic thing that’s going to happen to them that day, that week or perhaps in their whole lifetime,” Sergeant Holloway said.
“That allows for the whole spectrum of accidents – even a minor accident will be the most traumatic thing which will happen to them that day.
“But a serious collision or a fatal crash is really going be the absolute worst experience of their life.”
And the likelihood of that life-changing experience is greater in the regions – country Victorians are four times more likely to die on the road than Melburnians.
In an effort to keep road accidents to a minimum, the state government and the Transport Accident Commission have launched a pre-Christmas appeal to motorists and say they will have a strong presence in the regions.
“We’re urging all Victorians to make good choices before they get behind the wheel this Christmas and reminding them the best gift they can give is just to be there,” Roads and Road Safety Minister Luke Donnellan said.
“We’ve had too many lives lost on our roads this year.”
As of midnight on December 1, 266 people had died on Victoria roads.
That was 33 more victims than in the same period last year and 26 more deaths than the five year average.
“We know this time of year means more Victorians are on our roads, taking longer trips to see family and friends and that’s why we’re asking you to plan your journey, take breaks, don’t speed and arrive safely,” the minister said.
Sergeant Holloway also said the festive season was a particularly dangerous time to be on the road.
“A lot of people are driving to places a long way away, they’re towing caravans and boats for greater distances than they usually do and their driving attention is not at its best,” he said.
“So not only do you need to drive safely but you have to be aware of those other drivers around you who may not be as safe and as careful and as considerate a driver as you are.
“And make sure both you and your car are prepared to do what you want them to.”
Joseph Hinchliffe
Council and environment reporter at the Bendigo Advertiser.
Council and environment reporter at the Bendigo Advertiser.
