What if changing a single word could help save lives?

Most of us have heard road crashes described as "accidents". But what if that language shapes the way we think about road safety, responsibility and the choices we make every day?

In this People and Projects episode of Streets and People, award-winning transport journalist Laura Laker shares the story behind the Road Collision Reporting Guidelines and explains why more thoughtful language can lead to more thoughtful conversations.

Together, we explore how the stories told by journalists, police and public agencies influence public understanding, why context matters just as much as the collision itself, and how small changes in communication can encourage safer streets for everyone.

This conversation isn't about blaming drivers or pointing fingers. It's about recognising that every road collision affects real people, real families and entire communities. It's about asking better questions, understanding the bigger picture and believing that road trauma is not something we simply have to accept.

Whether you're a journalist, transport professional, councillor, planner, advocate or someone who simply wants safer streets for your family and neighbours, this episode offers practical ideas that can change the way you see road safety.

Because when we change the conversation, we create opportunities to change outcomes.

Guest: Laura Laker – award-winning transport journalist and creator of the Road Collision Reporting Guidelines.

Here are the guidelines: https://www.rc-rg.com/guidelines

To read Laura’s blogs: https://lauralaker.substack.com/ and https://shows.acast.com/streets-ahead

To connect with Laura: https://bsky.app/profile/lauralaker.bsky.social

Check out our website for more info: https://getaroundcaboolture.au/road-collision-reporting-laura-laker/

Podcast theme music: Doctor Yes | Yari | Bensound

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