RAC is urging motorists to take extra care on our roads this long weekend, as holidaymakers embark on intrastate road-trips following the further easing of travel restrictions.
Starting today, travel is now permitted between all of WA’s regions except the Kimberley. Today also marks Fatality Free Friday.
RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs Will Golsby said the long weekend is a great opportunity to explore our own backyard, but we need to do so safely.
“There is no doubt many of us are eager to get away after weeks of cancelled plans and social isolation, and WA certainly has some incredible places to explore,” Mr Golsby said.
“This year’s WA Day long weekend coincides with Fatality Free Friday and is a timely reminder to those of us preparing for a trip away with our families and friends.
“During the restrictions, we've seen risk-taking behaviour increase on our roads which is extremely concerning, particularly as many of us will be travelling for longer distances and on unfamiliar roads this long weekend.
“Ultimately, we don’t want to see anyone hurt or killed on our roads.
“Please continue prioritising the health and safety of yourself, your loved ones and your community — including when you get behind the wheel.”
So far this year, 55 people have lost their lives on WA’s roads, including 34 in our regional areas.
“Regional WA is home to some of the most beautiful places in the country but also has some of our most dangerous roads.
“Our regional areas are consistently over-represented by road deaths and most serious crashes involve cars running off the road or drifting into the path of oncoming traffic.
“We’re urging everyone to slow down, be patient and drive to the conditions, to ensure we can all have a safe and enjoyable long weekend.”
To improve our regional road network, RAC continues to call on the State and Federal Governments to jointly fund a life-saving, job creating, stimulus Regional Road Safety Package, which would upgrade 17,000kms of our roads.
Double demerits are currently in place for the WA Day long weekend until Monday, 1 June inclusive.
RAC’s tips for a safe road trip
Prepare your car:
- Clean your windows and mirrors, fill your windscreen washer bottle and do oil, radiator and water checks
- Make sure you have enough fuel
- Make sure your tyres are properly inflated and they have enough tread
- Check that your spare tyre is secured and in good condition
- Check your lights and indicators are working
- Check your seat is in a good position for driving
- Plan your route so you know where you’re going
- Check where the rest stops and petrol stations are along the way
- Check the weather conditions before you leave
- Have plenty of drinking water
- Charge your phone and put it somewhere out of reach
Stay safe on the road:
- Slow down and reduce your speed for the conditions
- Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front
- Take breaks every two hours and if you feel tired, pull over somewhere safe straight away or swap drivers
- Limit your driving to less than eight hours a day and try to avoid driving at night
- Don’t overtake unless it’s safe to do so
- Keep your headlights on
- Stay alert for wildlife
- Be patient and when in doubt, don’t proceed
- ENDS -
RAC Media Contact: Caitlin Barr, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
