Drive safely these holidays

Drive safely these holidays

Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer is urging motorists to drive carefully in the lead up to Christmas.

“As the holiday period approaches, many people will be hitting the road to visit family and friends or to take a well-earned break. If you’re planning a long driving trip during this busy time, it’s important to prepare properly before you set off,” Mr Dwyer said.

“Holiday traffic on highways increases significantly, and careful planning can make your journey safer, smoother and far less stressful.

“Before you leave, take the time to map out your route, check the expected traffic conditions, and allow extra travel time in case of delays. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition by checking fuel, oil, tyres, lights and windscreen wipers. A few minutes of preparation can prevent major problems later.

“Police will also be out in force throughout the holiday period, with a strong focus on reducing road trauma. Officers will be actively targeting dangerous behaviours such as speeding, drink or drug driving, driver fatigue, and the non-wearing of seatbelts. These factors continue to be major contributors to serious crashes, so all motorists are urged to take them seriously,” Mr Dwyer said.

“To protect yourself, your passengers and other road users, remember to always wear your seatbelt, stay within posted speed limits and never drive after consuming alcohol or drugs. Equally important is managing fatigue. Make sure you are well rested before you begin your trip, and plan to take regular breaks ideally, stop to rest every two hours. If you start to feel tired, swap drivers if possible or pull over for a short break.

“By preparing ahead, driving responsibly and looking out for others on the road, you can help ensure that your holiday journey is a safe and enjoyable one. Drive carefully, take your time, and have a happy and safe holiday season,” Mr Dwyer concluded.