With journeys to the 2018 Leavers WA celebrations kicking off this weekend, RAC is urging young drivers to slow down, ditch the distraction and look out for each other.
RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs Will Golsby said young drivers are significantly overrepresented in WA’s road fatality statistics, reinforcing the need to stay safe on our roads.
“Tragically, young drivers are some of the most vulnerable people on our roads, becoming even more high risk as they transition from supervised driving to provisional and full licences,” Mr Golsby said.
“Last year, road users aged between 20-29 made up 20 per cent of road fatalities in WA, the highest of any age group.
“Leavers is a popular time for travel to regional WA, an area where the road fatality rate is five times higher than Perth metropolitan, so we remind drivers to stay focused and make safety the top priority.
“Driver distraction can be deadly and every day we’re seeing more drivers risk their lives and the lives of others by using their phones.
“Instead of letting our devices control us, we need to look up when we’re driving and focus on what’s most important, the safety of ourselves and those around us.
“We urge all drivers to put their phones away, or even better, turn them off completely.”
Mr Golsby said many of those heading away for leavers won’t have driven long distances or been on country roads before, so urged drivers to remain extra vigilant.
“Regional roads and driving conditions vary greatly to those in metropolitan areas and present dangers including loose road surfaces, high speeds and wandering wildlife,” he said.
“Passengers also have an important role – be alert, be aware of the speed the car is travelling and have the confidence to tell your mates to slow down.”
To help promote road safety and support young drivers, RAC will be hosting two events at this year’s Leavers celebration:
Leavers Pit Stop on Friday 23 November between 10am and 4pm at John Tognela Rest Area. RAC Patrols will be offering free car mechanical checks, and leavers will receive free giveaways, snacks and soft drink to refuel them for their drive home.
View more information here.
RAC free2go Roadside Assistance activation on Sunday 19 November at Dunsborough foreshore. Leavers will have the chance to spin the wheel to win prizes such as RAC Auto Services gift cards, beach balls and the opportunity to go into the draw to win a double pass to an RAC Arena concert.
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Media contact: Stephanie Gavlak, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
