Take the time to plan ahead for a safe trip this long weekend, drivers are being urged ahead of Nelson Anniversary weekend.
The NZ Transport Agency, Police, ACC and the Ministry of Transport are reminding drivers to ensure they are well rested and well prepared before travelling this long weekend.
NZTA regional director Jenny Chetwynd says that over 2010 the Nelson City / Tasman District area suffered a road toll of 15 people – compared to seven in 2009 and nine in 2008.
“The human cost on Nelson and Tasman roads last year was devastating, and this is a timely and sobering reminder for motorists to exercise great care and put safety first when travelling this holiday weekend.”
“We need to do better this year, and ensuring you’re well rested and well prepared before heading out on the roads is critical to keeping the road toll down and making your own journeys safer and more enjoyable.”
Provisional statistics for 2010 show there were 15 confirmed fatalities on roads in the region last year, up from 7 in 2009 and 9 in 2008. The highest annual road toll on record for Nelson/Tasman is 20, in 1992, and the lowest was four, in 1996
The NZ Transport Agency, Police, ACC and the Ministry of Transport have put together some simple tips and advice for people to avoid crashes this anniversary weekend. And we'll be doing our part as well.
Here are some things we'll be doing to keep the roads safe these holidays, and some things we're asking drivers to do to make their own journeys safe ones.
1) Keep you informed about the roads so you can plan your journey
You can get up to date information about what's happening on the roads via variable message signs on the roadside, online at www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/current-conditions/highway-info/, or by calling 0800 444 449.
2) Give you the tools you need to plan ahead so your journey is safe and enjoyable
All of the information you need is available from the NZTA website - www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/info/around-nz/holidays.html
3) Put more police on the roads to ensure that everyone sticks to the rules and to deal with any problems that arise
Police will be on the roads in large numbers, highly visible, ensuring that all road users stick to the rules, making the roads safer for everyone.
1) Plan ahead
It will take the stress out of your journey and can make the trip an enjoyable part of the holiday.
Plan to have enough rest beforehand and plan to share the driving to stay fresh and avoid the risks of fatigue. Allow enough time to get to your destination safely.
Schedule in breaks on your trip, and sort out entertainment and refreshments to keep the kids occupied.
Think about the route you'll take - how safe are the roads you are planning to travel on? Will you be travelling on unfamiliar roads? Be aware that different parts of our roads provide different levels of safety. Roadside hazards like trees, ditches, poles and narrow shoulders can increase risk. Intersections can be dangerous, so can busy roads without a median barrier. Armed with that knowledge people can adjust their driving to the conditions and take extra care on higher risk roads. Further information and risk maps for state highways in New Zealand are available at www.kiwirap.co.nz(external link).
2) Check your car before hitting the road
A safe and well maintained car can stop you having a crash and protect you better if there is one. Don't just hop in the car and go - it only takes a few minutes to check your tyre treads and pressure, and it could save your life. Also remember to check your oil, water and lights. Most garages offer safety checks for tyre tread and pressure, lights, brakes, cooling systems and other components. A well tuned vehicle is also more fuel efficient so you'll also save money on fuel costs.
We tend to cram a lot of gear in for the holidays, but loose items can be dangers to people in the car. Make sure everything is safely packed away. If you're going to be towing make sure all the couplings are compatible. Also, remember to check the safety chain, trailer lights, tyres and brakes. See www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/glovebox-guide-safe-loading-towing/ for more tips on safe towing.
3) Drive to the conditions
Every road is different and every journey is different. Remember the 'conditions' mean more than just the weather. They also include the state of the road, the traffic conditions, your vehicle, your load, and you - are you stressed or tired? Take a break.
4) If you're going to drink, plan a safe way home
You need to be sober to control your vehicle properly and be aware of what's going on around you. Plan ahead and know how you're getting home before you go out drinking - have a sober driver, use public transport, take a taxi or walk if it's safe and practical.
5) Expect the unexpected
Over the holidays the road environment can be more unpredictable. There could be a queue, a bike or even a horse around the corner.
If you're driving, make sure you keep an eye out for cyclists and other road users. Give them plenty of space. Watch out for horses on back country roads. If you're cycling or motorcycling, make sure you're visible and wearing proper protective gear. If you're towing or driving slowly, keep an eye on what's behind you. Pull over safely to let traffic pass.
