With the long weekend ahead, police are again reminding drivers to plan their trips well and allow plenty of time to get to their destinations.
Superintendent Bob Fauser, officer in charge of Traffic Support Branch, says drivers on country roads need to be especially vigilant.
“For many a long weekend is a time for relaxing, celebrating, catching up with friends and family and for many people this means travelling long distances on our roads.”
“Even if you’re familiar with the route, we ask that you don’t become complacent. With extra traffic on the roads, conditions and driver behaviour can change.”
“While most drivers do the right thing, there is still a selfish number out there who will speed, drive affected by alcohol or illicit drugs, use their hand held mobile phone when driving and generally not give the road their full attention.”
“Distracted drivers have accounted for 28 road deaths in 2012 out of the 70, so keeping your mind on the road is crucial.”
“So please, stop and take those frequent breaks, stretch your legs and revitalise. And definitely, turn off the mobile phone.”
Superintendent Fauser says drivers have a duty of care to ensure everyone in their car is wearing a seat belt and children are secured in age appropriate seating restraints.
“In 2012, 15 people killed were not wearing seat belts, so drivers must ensure everyone is safely buckled in before they leave the kerb.
“Police will be highly attentive to road safety over the long weekend, and can stop drivers at any time to conduct alcohol and drug tests.”
“It really isn’t worth losing your license, or even worse, your life, over drinking and driving.”
“Police make no apology for being on the lookout for those drivers who endanger the lives of other road users, so if you are drinking, taking drugs or speeding, expect to hand up your license.”
