Even a minor accident on the Kings Highway can quickly become a major one, due to the ensuing traffic chaos.

Our front-page story today explains the predicament clearly, with one mother recounting how her son had to walk and climb a tree to call for help after an accident.

At least he could walk after his ordeal, but climb a tree? Many of us would struggle with that.

The original Telecom was able to provide land-line connections to even the most remote communities - indeed, it was required to under its founding charter.

Those who wrote that document considered the provision of potentially lifesaving technology to all Australians who requested it to be vital.

The process was not always easy or cheap - towers and robust battery banks had to be installed in some difficult terrain - but the lines went in and rural people were grateful.

Surely the same should be true for a vital highway linking the national capital with the coast.

State and Federal Governments are pouring much money into upgrading this conduit, which is used so often by so many.

The Eurobodalla’s economy depends on tourism and that industry, to a significant degree, depends on this road.

Aside from injury and loss of life, an accident on the mountain is a major disruptor to all who use the route.

Much work remains to be done on the Clyde and we look forward to a safer stretch of road.

In the meantime drivers are looking forward to not having to climb a tree to call for help - and emergency crews look forward to being able to do their jobs and get extra help to accident scenes as quickly as possible.

The Bay Post/Moruya Examiner commends Louise Ogilvie for mobilising people power via her petition and all those who have shared their stories.

Bring on a land line lifeline - or several!