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Road crash alarm as holidays draw near

Police are alarmed at a number of recent near-tragedies on the eve of one of the biggest holiday travel periods.

Last weekend, a family of four suffered minor injuries with their LandCruiser rolled on the Brand Highway S-Bend.

In another incident, a couple narrowly escaped serious injury when their caravan rolled near Binnu last week.

Officers are concerned road safety messages are not getting through and are urging motorists to show extra awareness while travelling this Easter.

Sergeant Stuart Gerreyn of Northampton Police said the biggest concern was driver impatience.

“Overtaking in dangerous positions and without enough foresight to what traffic is ahead is the easiest way to meet fatal consequences,” he said.

“It is a simple thing. Bide your time, use overtaking lanes and, as we say time and time again, it is better to be that little bit late than not get there at all.”

Sgt Gerreyn said unsafe drivers failed to recognise accidents had far-reaching effects and it was often other unsuspecting motorists who suffered the consequences.

“A road accident of any level has a very broad community impact — those related directly, fire and emergency rescue, ambulance officers, passersby and those who witness the accident, especially children. Witnessing a car accident can leave a lasting impact on them,” he said.

He urged drivers to plan to avoid heavy travel periods where possible and to pack snacks in advance to avoid unnecessary stops.

“Ultimately motorists need to accept travelling during this time of year will take longer than usual,” Sgt Gerreyn said.

He said safe packing of caravans and trailers was also imperative.

“You may think you are driving safely towing a trailer or caravan, but if it has not been packed properly you will not be able to avoid the sway which is often attributed to these types of accidents,” he said.

Report unsafe driving either at a nearby police station or ring 131 444.

Mobile use to attract double demerit points


Police are calling on motorists to be extra careful on the roads this Easter, with double demerits in place from Thursday.

This weekend will be the first time illegal mobile phone use has been included in the double-demerit system.

Running red lights will also incur double demerit penalties.

The penalties already apply to drink and drug driving, speeding and not using seatbelts or child restraints.

Double demerits apply for Easter between Thursday and Monday and again between April 24 and 27 for the Anzac weekend.

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