Across NSW, Fairfax Media is encouraging drivers to rethink their actions and Survive the Drive. 

Through the new campaign, launched Monday, the organisation hopes to shine a spotlight on the ripple effect of trauma, the risks contributing to fatalities and the devastating impact of road crashes on families, communities and emergency services. 

Over the past five years, 190 people have died on Central West and Orana roads and more than 5000 have been injured. But the toll felt by the community each time a number is added, cannot be measured. 

Behind every figure is a person whose family, friends, neighbours and community are forever changed. 

At every crash scene, hidden by sirens and flashing lights, every day people working or volunteering as first responders, face unforgettable trauma. 

NSW Roads Minister Melinda Pavey said country people are disproportionately represented in the road toll, with two third of NSW fatalities occurring in regional areas. 

“Of those 354 fatal crashes, 272 of those fatalities occurred in regional NSW,” she said. “We are one third of people but constantly two-thirds of fatalities. It’s not just about road and road quality it’s about driver behaviour.”

Males aged 30 to 59 account for 39 per cent of deaths and are most at risk. 

Statistics show excessive or inappropriate speed was a factor in 47 per cent of country fatalities, fatigue a factor in 28 per cent, alcohol in 20 per cent and not using seatbelts in 21 per cent. 

Ms Pavey said there were no excuses when it came to road safety. “We need to confront the issue. We need to make a difference on country roads. 354 –  just imagine that number of people.

Deputy premier John Barilaro said a NSW advertising campaign, “Saving Lives on Country Roads”, was fantastic and would deal with issues specifically being seen in country NSW. 

“It’s a timely message especially at Christmas as people travel across the state and country on regional roads,” he said.