Australians diving on the roads during this Easter break have been urged by the Federal Minister for Road Safety, Catherine King, to think ahead and plan their journey.
“We all know Easter is a busy time on our roads, so taking a few minutes to plan your journey before you begin your trip is really important,” Ms King said.
“We want everyone to arrive safely so, whether you are planning a longer trip or just driving around town, think about the journey ahead and its particular challenges, please drive within the speed limits, take breaks when you need them and always drive to the road conditions.
“Each year during the Easter break we can see a dozen or more road deaths and for every fatality around 20 more people are seriously injured.
“It’s easy to think it won’t happen to you – but the truth is that far too many Australian families lose loved ones or experience serious injuries in road crashes every year.
“A little simple, but careful planning can make all the difference.”
Ms King said the Government is committed to reducing the number of deaths and injuries from road crashes.
“Through the National Road Safety Strategy 2011–2020 we are working with state and territory and local governments to move us towards our long-term vision of a road transport system that is inherently safe, built around four fundamentals—Safe Roads; Safe Speeds; Safe Vehicles; and Safe People.
“Through the Strategy, our target is to reduce the annual numbers of both deaths and serious injuries on our roads by at least 30 per cent by 2020,” Ms King said.
“All road users have a part to play in using the roads safely and with respect for other road users. Planning your journey is one important way of doing this.
“This Easter, keep in mind the basics of road safety for you and your passengers: make sure everyone wears their seatbelts, don’t drive after drinking, keep to the speed limits and leave plenty of time for rest breaks.
“Remember, in many parts of the country, double demerit points will apply over the Easter break.” Ms King said.