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Vic: Road Toll Falling But TAC Accident Claims On The Rise

New data from Victoria’s Traffic Accident Commission (TAC) reveals that although road deaths have been declining, injury and fatality claims are on the rise. Accepted claims (against a driver's no-fault insurance liability cover) ros


New data from Victoria’s Traffic Accident Commission (TAC) reveals that although road deaths have been declining, injury and fatality claims are on the rise.

Accepted claims (against a driver's no-fault insurance liability cover) rose almost three percent in 2011/12 compared to the previous year. The southern metropolitan area being the source of the highest number of claims.

Claim rates have been steady each financial year since 2006/07, but spiked to 16,454 claims in 2011/12 - the highest figure since 2009/10.

The northern metro area saw the biggest spike in claims, up 13.5 percent.

Five of the six metro areas saw a rise in claims, with only the south bucking the trend (down just 11 claims) despite having the highest claim rate overall.

It was a similar story in the five rural districts, with only the Gippsland area seeing a fall in claims (down 4.6 percent). The Barwon – Western Districts area had the highest claim rate overall as well as the steepest rise in claims, up 3.7 percent.

"Although improvements to vehicle safety and our roads have helped reduce fatalities, we still have a way to go until we can protect people from serious harm should a crash occur,” TAC CEO Janet Dore said.

"Whether we are a driver, passenger, rider, cyclist or pedestrian, we all have a role to play in keeping ourselves and others on the roads safe," Ms Dore said.

The TAC also reminded drivers to obey speed limits, limit distractions and avoid driving whilst impaired by alcohol, drugs or fatigue.

The Victorian road toll currently sits at 84, compared to 94 for the same period last year.

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