The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) has launched a powerful new initiative highlighting the profound and lasting impact of road trauma. The Hardest Share calls on Victorians to come forward with their own stories of losing a loved one or suffering a life-changing injury, helping to build a collective community-driven voice in support of road safety that reminds us of all of the human cost of road trauma. So far this year, 162 lives have been lost on Victorian roads, 17 more than at the same time last year, representing countless families, friends and communities forever in mourning. Sadly, there are thousands more people seriously injured in road crashes every year, many requiring TAC support for life. Acting TAC CEO Jacqui Sampson said more than half of the lives lost on Victorian roads last year involved illegal behaviours such as speeding, mobile phone use and failing to wear seatbelts - all of which are preventable and major factors in road trauma this year. Ms Sampson said as pat of TAC’s ongoing efforts to prevent road trauma, The Hardest Share underscores the safe choices everyone can make to protect themselves and others every time they use the roads: slow down, take breaks, don’t drink or drug drive, wear a seatbelt and put the phone away. “The ripple effects of road trauma are devastating and far-reaching," she said. "Through The Hardest Share, our goal is to encourage people to open up, share their stories of personal loss and hopefully prevent others from experiencing road trauma in the process." Karen Gaylard, who tragically lost her husband Philip in a road crash in 2018, is one of the first Victorians to share her story as part of the initiative. Philip was a devoted father, husband and tradesman known for his quiet acts of love and the meaningful life he built in Colac. “We hope that by telling Philip's story we can help others gain understanding of the lifelong impact of road trauma," Ms Gaylard said. "Sharing our story is painful, but if it makes even one person think twice on the road, then it’s worth it." If you’ve been impacted by road trauma, your story can be the reason someone else makes it home safely. Visit https://www.tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/tac-campaigns/the-hardest-share to submit your Hardest Share. The TAC will work sensitively with those willing to share their stories, providing counselling and other supports.
