Motorists urged to stay calm for busy shopping weekend

28 December 2008

Perth motorists are being urged to take it easy as suburban shopping centre carparks turn into pre-Christmas jungles this weekend.

The RAC says this weekend is likely to be one of the busiest this year for shopping and carparks will fill up early in the day.

RAC spokesman Matt Brown says the pressure of Christmas shopping coupled with the increased demand for parking spaces can create a volatile mix.

“We’re all in a hurry to get things done in the pre-Christmas rush,” Mr Brown said.

“But carparks can be dangerous places, particularly with an increased number of children about the place.

“So motorists need to slow down, be patient and show a bit more consideration this weekend.

“Parents also need to keep a closer check on smaller children and just be aware that there is more traffic than normal both in the carparks and on the surrounding roads.”

Mr Brown said the potential for minor accidents and ‘carpark rage’ will be higher than normal this weekend.

“RAC Insurance data shows that claims for damage to parked cars jump on average by 10 per cent in December,” Mr Brown said.
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“So motorists need to be more aware of the vehicles around them and be alert to the actions of other motorists.

“There will be some minor bumps and scrapes but it is important that these don’t escalate by allowing tempers to get out of control.

“Motorists just need to accept that it may take a bit longer to find a parking space and not let the stress levels rise.”

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