Drive safe this summer: the AA’s safe driving ABCs

Drive safe this summer – the AA’s safe driving ABCs

With the holiday season almost upon us, the AA is encouraging drivers to regularly remind themselves of the AA’s safe driving ABCs:

Stay Alert
Take Breaks
Be Considerate

AA General Manager of Motoring Affairs Mike Noon says the summer holiday season is busier than any other time on the roads and people are driving long distances.

Stay Alert and take Breaks

“Take a minute now to think about your trip:

• Will you get a good night’s sleep the night before?
• Can you share the driving?
• Are you allowing enough time for breaks and meals?
• Have you given yourself a flexible arrival time at your destination?
• And will your children have enough to do so they’re not distracting you when you’re driving?”

Mr Noon says statistics show that most crashes are caused by poor observation, which often means drivers were distracted or tired.

“People don’t intend to be inattentive, but if you’re tired or distracted by a cell phone, the stereo or attention-seeking children, you’re much more likely to crash.”

“Treat the task of driving with respect and give it your full attention.”

Be Considerate

Mr Noon also says we can all contribute to a more pleasant holiday drive by being more considerate drivers.

“Stay alert to traffic around you and be patient. If you’re towing or driving slowly, pull over and let others pass.

“Keep more than two-seconds behind the vehicle in front and increase that to more than four-seconds in wet weather. Driving to the conditions is one of the smartest things you can do.

“If you’re walking or cycling, stay alert and remember you’re more vulnerable. Motorists need to be especially careful and considerate around pedestrians and cyclists and give them a wide margin when passing.”

More AA safe driving tips

The AA reminds people to check their vehicle before they go. “Check your warrant, tyre pressure, oil and windscreen washer fluid,” says Mr Noon.

The AA also suggests driving with your headlights on dip in the daytime to increase your visibility to other motorists during busy holiday driving.

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

ENDS

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