Australia’s road toll increased 4.6% in past 12 months, new data shows

1,240 people died on Australian roads in the 12 months to September this year, up from 1,186 the previous year. Photograph: Blake Sharp-Wiggins/The Guardian

Australia’s road toll is continuing to rise, with new data showing 1,240 people were killed in car crashes in the past 12 months, representing a 4.6% annual increase.

Data released by the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) on Sunday shows 1,240 people died on Australian roads in the 12 months to September this year, up from 1,186 the previous year. More than 100 people were hospitalised every day.