Over the past 12 months, five people have died on the roads within Wagga Local Area Command (LAC), an increase of one over 2014.

While the state’s road toll also recorded an increase, the state’s southern region actually fell from 81 in 2014 to 64 in 2015.

Within the region, Cootamundra LAC had the highest number of deaths on the road of 13 which was up from seven.

Meanwhile, Griffith LAC fell from 13 in 2014 to seven.

Maria Thomson’s son Joe died in an accident as he was walking home from a party in Wagga in 2011.

“Everyone has a responsibility to make sure we’re all safe,” Ms Thomson said.

Whether it was setting off on holidays or returning from the pub, she said people needed to look after each other.

Ms Thomson urged parents to be prepared to make the “pyjama run” to collect children from the pub if needed.

“Forward planning before you get to the pub or setting off on a road journey is needed,” she said.

“The worst nightmare is the knock on the door from the police.”

Ms Thomson said when driving, passengers should be prepared to speak up and ensure drivers take breaks and obey the law.

“There needs to be respect for the law,” she said.

“(A driver’s licence) is something you earn and you keep because you’re doing the right thing.”