Published on Wednesday, 31 March 2021 at 10:25:13 AM
The Easter holiday break will result in extra traffic on our local roads as people head away for the extra-long weekend.
To ensure everyone arrives at their destination, it’s crucial road users exercise caution and prioritise safety.
Below are 5 simple tips to ensure your Easter runs as smoothly as a new set of tyres.
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Make sure your vehicle is road ready
Speaking of new sets of tyres, it’s imperative that you check your tread before you hit the road. The minimum legal tread depth in Western Australia is 1.5mm. While you’re at it, you should also ensure your car has sufficient levels of oil, radiator coolant and of course, fuel. For a full guide on how to make sure your car is ready for a long journey, check out the RAC Road Trip Checklist: https://rac.com.au/car-motoring/info/road-trip-checklist
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Put the phone down
The distraction of mobile phones, even for a split second, can lead to disaster on the road. RAC statistics say a person is four times more likely to crash if they use a mobile phone while driving, and this danger becomes even more prominent on busy Easter roads. By law, a driver in WA can touch a mobile phone in a secure mounting to accept or end a call but talking on your mobile phone legally via hands-free is still a distraction. The best way to avoid an accident is to give the road your full attention. For more, visit: https://www.rsc.wa.gov.au/Rules-Penalties/Browse/Mobile-Phones
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Don’t drink and drive
The dangers of drinking alcohol before getting behind the wheel are well-known, but did you know those effects can linger into the morning after a big night? Often people will think they are fine to drive, but alcohol can remain in your system well into the next day. According to the Road Safety Commission, more than 27 per cent of fatal crashes in WA across 2020 were caused by suspected drink driving. Unsure if you’re okay to drive? Then don’t. For more, visit: https://www.rsc.wa.gov.au/Your-Safety/Behaviours/Drink-Driving
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Obey the speed limit
We all want to get to our holiday destinations, but more importantly we all want to get there safely. The beauty of a long weekend is that you have more time to relax, so why rush? Sticking to the speed limit and keeping a safe distance between vehicles are two of the most effective ways of preventing a crash. Also, with double demerits coming into play over the break, those speeding can expect a hefty punishment. So as the Eagles once sang: Take it easy, and don’t let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy.
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Watch out for animals
Here in the Serpentine Jarrahdale, we’re lucky enough to live alongside some gorgeous native animals and birdlife, so it’s vital we take them into account when driving this Easter. If you find yourself in a situation where one of our local kangaroos has decided to cross the road at the wrong time, remember to break, not swerve, to avoid endangering lives.
From everyone at the Shire, we wish you a safe and happy Easter.
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