The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) is urging motorists to avoid driving tired these school holidays, as the number of lives lost on the state’s roads continues to climb.
TAC chief executive Tracey Slatter reminded Victorians to plan ahead before taking to the road during the holiday period which began on September 20.
“Fatigue is a major contributor to road trauma, particularly when people are travelling long distances on regional roads,” Ms Slatter said.
“We encourage drivers to take a break from the road every two hours, share the driving where possible, and slow down and enjoy the drive. Getting to your destination later than planned is better than not arriving at all,” she said.
Driving tired is a factor in an estimated 16 to 20 per cent of all fatal crashes in Victoria, and accounts for approximately 25 per cent of road trauma injuries at The Alfred and Royal Melbourne hospitals.
Recent TAC research revealed that 60 per cent of people admitted to driving while ‘quite tired’, while 21 per cent admitted to driving ‘very tired’ to the point that they struggled to keep their eyes open.
Falling asleep behind the wheel for just four seconds while travelling at 100km/h means a car will travel 111 metres without control. That’s about the same as 24 car lengths.
To avoid driving tired, motorists are advised to get a good night’s sleep before starting their journey, allow plenty of travel time, plan a break from the road every two hours, avoid distractions and swap drivers if possible.
To further help motorists safely reach their destinations, the TAC has also extended its Pause Stop Program into 15 Visitor Information Centres through its renewed partnership with the Victoria Tourism Industry Council.
These centres provide motorists with a range of resources to plan a safe journey and activities to entertain the kids, while also encouraging motorists to enjoy the local attractions each region has to offer.
For more information on Pause Stop and Driver Reviver locations, visit: www.tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/pausestop
