RACT Group CEO, Mark Mugnaioni, said the shocking statistics should serve as a wake-up call to every Tasmanian as people prepare to travel during the busy holiday period.
"Tasmania recorded a 51.6 per cent increase in road deaths in the 12 months to 30 November – the worst in the nation," Mr Mugnaioni said.
"Forty-seven Tasmanians died on our roads in that period, compared to 31 in the previous year. That's 16 more families devastated, 16 more empty chairs at Christmas tables.
“This is a tragic outcome for individuals, families, friends, communities and the state as a whole, and our hearts go out to all affected.”
Mr Mugnaioni said while there is no one cause for the increase there had been more incidents involving inattentive driving, “To be safer on the road, drivers need to steer clear of the 'fatal five': speeding, inattention, fatigue, failing to wear a seatbelt, and impaired driving," he said.
"If you drive safely, the chances are a lot higher you will arrive safely and avoid further tragedy this holiday period.”
Tasmania now has the nation's second-highest rate of crash fatalities per 100,000 residents at 8.2 – second only to the Northern Territory.
Mr Mugnaioni said the festive season brought increased risks due to higher traffic volumes. It is also a time when young drivers are particularly vulnerable as they travel to festivals and events, often with peers in the car.
"Our roads will be busy, and we need all Tasmanians to be accountable for the role they play in keeping each other safe.
"Make a plan to get to and from events safely, nominate a designated driver, use public transport, or call in a favour to stay with a mate.
"Most fatal crashes involve a single vehicle – 54.4% nationally. Single-vehicle crashes increased by 6.8% in the past year. These aren't unavoidable accidents – they're preventable tragedies caused by driver behaviour.
“50 per cent of these deaths were passengers so it is a very stark reminder that as a driver we are responsible for everyone in our car and on the road around us.
"By embracing proactive measures, drivers and passengers can maximise their chances of getting home safely.
"We're calling on everyone to play their part in making this festive season a safe and enjoyable time for all road users.
"Together, we can work towards reducing road incidents and making our roads safer for everyone. But it starts with individual choices – every single time you get behind the wheel."