20/12/2025
Last October, Ashley was out walking her dog in Carrum Downs when she was struck by a motorcycle.
The rider was allegedly under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Ashley was thrown 15 metres, spent a week in a coma, and nearly a year in hospital recovering.
She has undergone multiple surgeries, including the partial amputation of her leg, suffered multiple strokes, and now lives with the lasting impacts of a traumatic brain injury.
Ashley’s story is a powerful reminder of the real and enduring impact of road trauma - not just on those injured, but on families, friends and communities.
Victoria has the second-largest road network in Australia. While police will be patrolling everywhere from rural back roads to major highways, road safety ultimately comes down to the choices we all make.
As we head into the busy festive period, we’re urging all road users to slow down, think ahead and prioritise safety.
If you’re getting behind the wheel:
🍻 Separate your drinking from your driving. Plan a safe way home.
📱 Put the phone away and avoid distractions.
🗺️ Plan ahead and allow plenty of time to get where you’re going.
🛏️ Take regular breaks on long trips.
Every safe choice matters.