Easter is one of our busiest driving weekends, says General Manager of Motoring Affairs Mike Noon.

"There are more cars on the road and people are driving longer distances. I can't overemphasise the old maxims of making sure you're wide awake and watching your following distance. Drivers who are focussed on the task of driving are far less likely to crash."

He also says we can all contribute to a safer and more pleasant holiday drive by being more considerate of other road users.

Mr Noon says that at this time of year sun strike can be a problem.

"Keep your windscreen clean and think about avoiding driving at times of day when the sun is low in the sky. If the sun is bothering you, take a coffee break or an early dinner."

The AA suggests people drive with their headlights on during the day to increase their visibility to other motorists. And as always, the AA reminds people heading off on a long drive to plan ahead by checking their warrant, tyre pressure, oil and windscreen washer fluid before they leave and allowing plenty of time for breaks. It is also advisable to have water on hand in case you get stuck in a traffic jam.

Mr Noon has a particular message for motorcyclists.

"When the weather is good, the Easter holiday tends to be a time when people bring out their motorcycles. There will be heavy traffic so make sure you wear bright and if possible reflective clothing. If you haven't ridden for a while be particularly alert and careful," he says.

During last year's Easter holiday weekend sadly seven people died in road crashes, including two motorcyclists, and 31 people were seriously injured.

"Wouldn't it be fantastic if no one was killed or injured this Easter," says Mr Noon.

Last week at the AA's annual conference, the AA endorsed a UN resolution for a global Decade of Action for Road Safety. The AA is committed to playing a greater role in New Zealand road safety over the next 10 years.

"We will be working hard to ensure that New Zealand's new road safety strategy is fully implemented and saves as many lives and prevents as many injuries as possible," says Mr Noon.

For more safe driving tips see www.aa.co.nz

For more information contact

Mike Noon
General Manager: Motoring Affairs
New Zealand Automobile Association
T. +64 9 931 9984
M. +64 21 659 704
Email: mnoon@aa.co.nz

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.