Pedestrian fatalities in Adelaide have surged by a staggering 160% this year, according to new RAA analysis of crash data in a spike that mirrors a national rise pushing Australia’s road toll to its highest in 15 years.
So far in 2025, thirteen people have died as pedestrians in metropolitan Adelaide. That’s more than double the five-year average of five deaths for the same period. Nationally, pedestrian deaths climbed 27% in the twelve months to July 31, the Australian Automobile Association reports.
RAA’s Senior Traffic Engineer, Matt Vertudaches, has issued a safety plea as Adelaide braces for a week of major crowds, with more than 54,000 fans expected at Adelaide Oval on Thursday night for the Crows v Collingwood AFL blockbuster.
“Pedestrians are some of our most vulnerable road users, and it’s alarming to see such a big increase in fatalities this year,” Vertudaches said.
He’s urging drivers to be alert and patient as heavy traffic and road closures choke the city’s west end, and reminding pedestrians to stick to crossings, put phones away, and avoid slipping between stationary or slow-moving cars, where they might be hidden from view and at risk when vehicles start moving.
The RAA’s warning also stretches beyond Adelaide. With football finals around the corner, Vertudaches is urging Geelong and Brisbane fans travelling to Melbourne, and Victorians heading to Adelaide, to take the same precautions on long-haul trips.
“Take regular rest breaks, stay alert, and share the driving where possible,” he advised, stressing that fatigue is one of the biggest but most overlooked risks on the road. He said tired drivers are more likely to lose concentration and make dangerous mistakes.
The spike in fatalities serves as a sobering reminder that South Australia’s streets are getting deadlier for those on foot. The message from authorities is simple, whether behind the wheel or crossing the road, everyone needs to pay attention if we’re to stop the toll from climbing further.
For the RAA website, click here.
