Four things to keep you safe on the road this Easter

As motorists hit the roads this holiday weekend, four things could keep them and their passengers alive and well: driving to the conditions, turning off their mobile phones, being patient, and remembering that over 100 people have already died on the roads this year.

AA spokesman Simon Lambourne says "most New Zealanders will make the most of the Easter long weekend and go for a drive - either on holiday or to see family and friends. While there are many things that motorists can do to keep themselves safe on the roads, remembering these four simple things will make driving much safer this Easter."

Drive to the conditions

"Some roads are safer than others. Driving right on the speed limit may very well be too fast, especially if the sun is in your eyes, if it's raining or there are hazards on the road. Motorists going on an unfamiliar road trip should plan their route."

Turn off mobile phones

"It's the holidays, so have a break! If you must have your phone on and have passengers in the vehicle, get them to answer your calls. Pull to the side of the road if you do have to talk on your phone, and above all don't text and drive - it's as dangerous as being drunk behind the wheel."

Be patient

"There will be a lot of traffic on the roads, be considerate of others and pull over to the left if you are driving slowly and holding up traffic. Give yourself plenty of time to make the trip, and remember it's far better to get to your destination an hour later than not to get there at all because of a crash."

Over 100 people have already died on our roads this year

"It is a sad but true fact that at least another 200 people are likely to be killed on our roads in 2008. Do you really want to become one of them?"

"Remembering these four things will make Easter safer for everyone. And if you want to keep your petrol costs down, drive smoothly and don't speed. Driving ten kilometres faster can use up to 14 per cent more fuel, and fuel it is not cheap at the moment!" says Mr Lambourne.

For more information contact

Simon Lambourne
Communications Manager
New Zealand Automobile Association
T. +64 9 966 8608
M. +64 21 659 029

The New Zealand Automobile Association is an incorporated society with over one million members. It represents the interests of road users who collectively pay over $2 billion in taxes each year through fuels excise, road user charges and GST.