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Don't be a bunny on the road this Easter

02 April 2012

Don’t be a bunny on the road this Easter – slow down and take regular rest breaks, the Chief Executive of the Australian Trucking Association, Stuart St Clair, said today.
 
“At holiday times, motorists often feel under pressure to push on to their destination, even though they’re tired. They don’t want to disappoint their family and friends,” Mr St Clair said.

But it’s better to be late for your Easter egg hunt than on time for an accident.

“That’s why the ATA is asking motorists on the road this Easter to slow down and take regular rest breaks: have a snack, have a stretch and give the kids a run around.”

Mr St Clair asked truck drivers to remember there will be more cars on the road – as well as motorists driving longer distances than normal, or towing a caravan or boat on a once-a-year trip.

“Trucking businesses and drivers need to allow more time in their schedules for the holiday traffic. We all know there will be delays, so factor them in so you don’t need to make up time,” Mr St Clair said.

“In addition, there will be motorists on the road who are not used to driving long distances, or are nervously towing a caravan or boat for the first time in months.

Hang back, give them some space and share the road safely, so we all get home safely this Easter.”

Mr St Clair said there were a few tips that motorists could follow to make their Easter trip safer:

  • Stick to the speed limit and take regular rest breaks.
  • Don’t start your long trip on Thursday night after a full day at work. You can’t drive safely when you’re tired. Get a full night’s sleep before you leave.
  • Don’t cut in front of trucks as they slow for traffic lights or when you’re out on the highway. A truck needs a greater distance to stop than you expect, because they are much heavier than cars.
  • Don’t overtake trucks when they are turning. Trucks often need to turn from the centre lane at intersections and corners, so stay well back. Remember, if you can’t see the truck driver’s side mirrors, the truck driver can’t see you.
  • Please be patient if the truck in front of you slows down when it’s going up a hill. If you want to overtake, wait till you can see enough clear road ahead.”

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