Motorcycle death toll up 35 per cent on five year average, police urge caution

Two motorcyclists were killed in separate collisions on Friday evening in Docklands and Cranbourne North, and a further three drivers were involved in fatal single-vehicle collisions between Friday night and Sunday afternoon in Burwood, Healesville, and Congupna.

The five fatalities bring the number of lives lost on Victorian roads to 142, which is 17 higher than the same time last year and higher than the five-year average of 132.

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Police are particularly concerned about the increased risk to vulnerable road users, with motorcyclists now accounting for 31 lives lost - a 35 per cent increase on the five-year average of 23.

Pedestrians have accounted for 28 lives lost this year, which is 13 higher than the same time last year and a 40 per cent increase on the five-year average of 20.

Speed and distraction have been identified as key contributing factors in fatal collisions, with police urging motorists to slow down and remain alert.

Victoria Police will remain highly visible across the state's roads in an effort to deter distracted and dangerous driving behaviour.

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Acting Assistant Commissioner Road Policing Justin Goldsmith said last weekend was nothing short of tragic.

"We really need people to heed the warnings and think about what you're doing when you take to the road or get behind the wheel," he said.

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