The National Transport Commission gives its tips for safe Christmas driving in the wake of its draft National Road Safety Strategy
December 9, 2010
The National Transport Commission (NTC) has urged all Australians to stay safe on our roads this festive season.
NTC Chief Executive Nick Dimopoulos says a happy Christmas is a safe Christmas, and that tragically at this time of year many drivers, pedestrians and cyclists are killed in road accidents that could have been avoided.
“Speeding, fatigue and driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol are the biggest causes of death and serious injury on our roads, with safety risks often heightened during holiday periods like Christmas,” he says.
“So that all road users can go home safely to their families, it’s important that drivers take regular breaks on long trips and share the driving if possible to combat fatigue.”
Dimopoulos says the release of the draft National Road Safety Strategy 2011–2020 this month aims to cut the rate of death and serious injury on our roads.
The NTC is advocating a ‘common sense’ when planning the annual road trip.
“Planning your trip and allowing plenty of time to get to your destination within the designated speed limit will also help keep you, your passengers and others on the road safe,” says Dimopoulos.
“And always remember, if you’re planning on having a drink or two, organise a designated driver or take a taxi or public transport.”
With 1,500 Australians losing their lives on roads each year and nearly 30,000 experiencing serious injuries while speeding, driving while fatigued or under the influence of drugs and alcohol, Dimopolous says these driver behaviours are simply not worth the risk.
“We’re hopeful that governments, industry and communities can all work together to make 2011 the safest year ever on our roads,” he says.
“We would also like thank our stakeholders for their valued input to national transport reforms during the year.
“The transport industry keeps this nation moving and we thank you for your efforts to move people and freight safely during 2010.”